It seems like the cards are stacked against Octavia on multiple fronts in this installment. Her world is more than a little complicated with her brainwashed boyfriend, necromancer abilities going wonky, and a vengeful fae king, but then Death enters the picture and really throws a major wrench in the mix, leading to Octavia having to make an impossible choice. Those she could rely on are powerless to help her. Everyone she loves is in danger. The love between her and her sexy werewolf is put to the ultimate test. She has to find a way to save the town she knows and loves. Death forces Octavia to have to face the consequences of actions she has taken and choices she has made. All of this really weighs on Octavia, and Ms. Rourke does a fantastic job of portraying these internal struggles in her writing.
Honestly, to me, this book represents a transition for both the main character and the author. While those who have been with Octavia throughout this series know her as a snarky, strong female character who never really doubts herself, a whole other side to her is brought out in this story - the raw, emotional feelings that come with seeing those you love suffer and having to make heart wrenching decisions. This only makes Octavia all the more human and brings her character development to a new level. I am looking forward to seeing where Ms. Rourke takes her next.