Darkbound by Scott Tracey

“Not all creatures die a mortal death.  Sometimes death is cunning: a caress instead of a slap.  Even death can fall in love.  Even death can dare to break the rules.”—Darkbound by Scott Tracey

We are back at it again with the Moonset coven, in the second book Darkbound.  In the aftermath of the last book, the coven kids are going about a regular life, still being watched by the Congress.  Instead of being in Justin’s head this time, we are now in Malcolm’s.  I. Love. Malcolm.  He’s angsty, angry, volatile, and he’s got a big date with a dark prince.  Since this book revolves around Malcolm, it also revolves around the questioning of the coven binds and magic in general.  Malcolm would give anything to lead a normal life, away from magic.  He’s tired of being in the life that ruined he’s coven’s prospect at a fulfilling and peaceful life, until one of the Dark Princes arrives in town.

With dark secrets from the past still being revealed, Moonset must figure out, along with The Congress, who brought a Dark Prince to life and why.  This becomes extremely important once the Prince shows himself to Malcolm and Malcolm alone.  With hints of romance one can assume that the Prince fancies our prickly Moonsetter, but sometimes there are more complex things lurking at the bottom of every reason.  Now that the Dark Prince is in town, no one is safe, and if you are not magically inclined you’re screwed.  This is when Malcolm begins to question his wants versus the needs of those around him, and ultimately his needs as well.  What would Malcolm give to get what he wants, and are the sacrifices worth the risk?

It was great to see life in Malcolm’s perspective because he’s so ornery and prickly.  I know he’s gay but frankly I am not immune to his charm (which is constantly brought up), I mean he sounds like an amazing specimen and again his attitude tends to be on the funny side versus, the rude mean side.  The character growth in this book was great, including Jenna and Malcolm’s relationship.  Where I was confused in the first book, I was able to pick up quickly in the second book and I noticed an increased ease in following along with the story.  The whole past has not been revealed, but there are some shockers and there are some new secrets brewing as well.  I cannot wait to see the next installment!

4 out 5 stars.  Thank You Net Galley