Wisteria (Belladonna #3) by Adalyn Grace

About this book

(blurb from Exclusive Books)  

Blythe Hawthorn has never let anyone tell her what to do… and she’s not about to start now.

Headstrong and passionate, she won’t be ruled by society, or by her overprotective father, and certainly not by the man she’s bound herself to, no matter how insufferable he is. She’s determined to be a thorn in his side for the rest of her days, even as he ensues that her life in his palace is anything but the decadent fairytale she imagined.

But as Blythe discovers a new side of herself linked to his past, she’ll have to decide if she’s willing to let an unexpected spark ignite… and discover the real truth about who she is inside.

WISTERIA is a sensational conclusion to the deathly and decadent Belladonna trilogy, with dramatic twists and a seductive new romance that will set readers’ hearts ablaze.

Genre: Gothic Fantasy, Romance

EAN: 9781399726092
PAGES: 432
PUBLISHED BY: Hodder & Stoughton (in South Africa, Jonathan Ball Publishers)
FORMAT: Paperback
R 415.00

My Thoughts:

“Burn as brightly as the sun if you wish, Aris, but I will not look away.”

In “Wisteria,” the final instalment of the Belladonna series, we follow Blythe Hawthorne as she navigates a world of gothic fantasy, romance, and danger. Despite constant tension with Aris/Fate, her reluctant companion, Blythe discovers deeper connections and new sides of herself tied to his past. Together, they face new challenges, uncover mysteries, and explore their complex relationship.

“One day, I promise that I will find you beneath the bend of a wisteria tree. Wait for me just a little longer.”
He would wait until every last star in the sky had faded from existence. He would have told her that, too.”

This book is my favourite in the Belladonna series. Despite some issues, such as the initial lack of chemistry between the main characters, it’s impressive how much I still cared about their relationship. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic, along with the gothic fantasy setting and fated lovers trope, kept me engaged throughout. The series has been a captivating journey from start to finish, and “Wisteria” provides a satisfying conclusion.

“I have imagined countless ways that I might be rid of you. Countless ways that I might quiet that filthy mouth of yours. Yet since the moment I saw you stalking the halls of my home, I’ve also felt something stirring that I do not understand, but that I’ve not felt in a very long time. And this time I will not run from it.”

Character Development:

“He could have the entire world in the palm of his hand if he wanted, but he chooses confirmed happiness rather than the gamble. Fear will stop him from taking a risk, as it does with so many.”

• Blythe and Aris/Fate: Their relationship embodies the best romance tropes, such as enemies to lovers, forced proximity, and soulmates. Their playful banter and slow-burn progression make their romance captivating. Aris’s devotion to Blythe, even to the point of allowing her happiness with another in future incarnations, is touching and elevates the romance.
• Signa and Sylas/Death: Though their chemistry fades into the background, their presence still impacts the story. The narrative balances their past significance with the new focus on Blythe and Aris.
• Chaos: The introduction of Chaos as an antagonist felt disjointed and underdeveloped, lacking a strong connection to the previous books and failing to significantly impact the main plot.

Key Themes:

“It’s said that the Wisteria Vine is a symbol of immortality. Blythe Hawthorne had often admired the flower – as deadly as it was beautiful, and resilient enough to thrive for centuries even if left forgotten.”

• Enemies to Lovers: The relationship between Blythe and Aris is a perfect example of this trope, filled with tension, growth, and eventual understanding.
• Gothic Fantasy: The richly detailed world of Belladonna continues to enchant, with its dark, magical atmosphere and intricate lore.
• Fated Lovers: The concept of soulmates and eternal love is explored deeply, particularly through Aris’s unwavering devotion to Blythe.
• Power and Identity: Characters struggle with their own powers and identities, adding depth to the narrative.
• Love and Sacrifice: Themes of love, loyalty, and sacrifice are woven throughout the story, highlighting the characters’ emotional growth and resilience.

Final Thoughts:

“It’s said that the Wisteria Vine is a symbol of immortality. Blythe Hawthorne had often admired the flower – as deadly as it was beautiful, and resilient enough to thrive for centuries even if left forgotten.”

“Wisteria” is a dark, delectable conclusion to the Belladonna series. Despite some plot inconsistencies and a rushed ending, it remains a thrilling and emotional read. The series as a whole is a favourite, with its unique blend of gothic romance, fantasy, and rich character development. I eagerly anticipate whatever Adalyn Grace has in store next, even if it ventures beyond this beloved world.

“I am not trying to take you from the life that you know. All I’m trying to do is show you a world that you deserve to see.”

Thank you to Exclusive Books for the opportunity to read this book.

#BookReview #Wisteria #BelladonnaSeries #AdalynGrace #GothicFantasy #Romance #EnemiesToLovers #BookRecommendations #RoeliaReads

Review: Belladonna by Adalyn Grace

Foxglove (Belladonna #2) by Adalyn Grace

About the author:

Home – Adalyn Grace