A Restless Truth is action-packed from the start. Maud starts off displaying her stubborn adherence to doing the right thing and continues to endear herself to readers throughout the story. Violet, a reluctant Lord Hawthorn and Alan Ross work together to learn more about the magical conspiracy bent on wreaking havoc on England.
Book Information
Publisher: Tordotcom
First Published: Nov 1 2022
Format: ebook
Source: Library
Genre: Historical Fiction
Series: The Last Binding #2
I waited too long between reading A Marvellous Light and A Restless Truth. I didn’t have a blog post of my own to re-read, and my recollection was vague. Luckily, I could jump into the story and catch up on the plot without too many issues. I love the setting for A Restless Truth. A steamship journey seems so romantic.
While Maud is honest and usually transparent, Violet only reluctantly lets people see beneath the mask. Maud recognizes her feelings for Violet and learns without prejudice or shame, and it is lovely to read. Violet sets aside her jaded outlook and is refreshed by Maud’s open-heartedness. I enjoyed the dance of mistrust between these two and how working through the mystery together slowly built their rapport and trust.
I loved Lord Hawthorn throughout this story. I loved his arrogance, his reluctant participation, and how he always came through for Maud, Ross, and Violet. He spoke harshly but acted kindly. His banter and dialogue were highlights for me.
The alternate universe A Restless Truth is set in parallels Edwardian England, 1901-1910. This story highlights the limitations placed on women, women of colour, and individuals without rank or status. I appreciated Maud’s self-reflection about the limits set on her when she was presenting as a paid companion versus her usual rank. Violet’s eccentric intentions with her inherited wealth also push against those limits. I’m happy to see this addressed in a period-appropriate way.
When I’d finished A Restless Truth, I thought, “How long am I going to have to wait to read Lord Hawthorn’s story?!” I noticed it wasn’t on Libby at my local library before, so I assumed it wasn’t out yet. Checked out Kobo, and there it was! I avoid buying books. It can get out of hand quickly at the pace I read. Still, my exception is buying one or two books to complete a series that is only partially available on Kobo + or Libby.
A Restless Truth is a solid read. The magical conspiracy continues to grow, and the bad actors are out there. I enjoyed this book, but it was weaker than A Marvellous Light. I’m hoping the last book in the series packs a punch.