Gold (The Plated Prisoner, 5)

I thought I'd have a hard time getting through this considering where the last one ended. This was done so beautifully. I was utterly captivated from start to finish. I would have read it one day, but life, so it took two. The characters are so well developed, from book one to this. The world building streamlined. The only complaint I have is, I have to wait for the finale. I'm perfectly content with that though. I appreciate the authors note after as well, must've been tough writing through postpartum. She did it masterfully. Ms. Kennedy has earned a fan for life.

And I can’t believe us readers are made to wait THIS LONG between each book. That is something that needs to be rectified….. It’s cruel. 😩 lol

Probably THE BEST series I’ve ever read. (And I have 100’s of books) Amazing penmanship. No book in this series is in any way like the previous one (as so many other series that start out promising end up to be, I’m sad to say) THIS SERIES, however, becomes better and better with each book. (I loved book-1, but it’s also my least favorite, because every book that follows turns out to be even more stunning than the one before…. every-single-one!)

It’s an amazing Fantasy world that will have both, men-and women-readers, sitting on the edge of the chair and read throughout the night, because-you-cannot-put-these-books-down!!! lol War, love, loyalty, true friendships forged, betrayal, staggering loss and hurt, and yes, hate as well…all of it described in such colorful ways, you will not only see it all running in front of your eyes like a movie, but you will experience it all with each character… how, why and what makes each person tick, what made them who they are now, and what will or can make them change– to CHOOSE WHO one self really is or, if you don’t like what you see, to reinvent yourself and become the person you want to be., Waiting for him to explain. He’s been good yeah and learning NOT to let past mistakes (or even a shitty dealt hand) drag you down, and to put those things behind you, letting go, so you may use that knowledge LEARNED -the good and the bad- should the need arise in the future.

Each character is unique and different in their ways –from the way they look, the way they talk, think, process things, feel and act! Raven has put together a masterpiece of a story that allows you to ‘slip into’ the characters and experience everything with them. The fear, the adrenaline, laughter and tears. You either love or absolutely hate someone…. and sometimes-lol- you may find yourself switching back and forth between. Definitely worth your time and money. Regardless of what type of books you usually prefer, fantasy books or not, war or romance books, it doesn’t matter, you cannot NOT like this series.

The ceeaticity of Raven Kennedy is other worldly. Her imagination and storytelling are topnotch. Did I really want to read a whole series... no, my life is too busy. However, I am forced by my commitment to unravel this adventure to read this book to the end.

This book kept me fully invested. There weren't any slow moments. There we re many hills and valleys, and it all remained intense and exciting.

Raven Kennedy, shoot me a message with bullet points of events to come leading up to the end and put me out of my misery.

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5 stars)

Gold by Raven Kennedy is a phenomenal addition to the series, earning a well-deserved five-star rating. The world-building in this installment is nothing short of fantastic, immersing readers in a rich and vibrant setting that enhances the overall experience.

The multiple POVs are handled exceptionally well, providing deep insights into the characters' minds and motivations. This narrative technique adds layers of complexity to the story, making it even more engaging. Spades' encouragement for Auren to find her strength is a standout element, showcasing her growth and resilience.

The various battles fought by different characters add depth to the plot, illustrating the diverse struggles and triumphs within the story. The gripping narrative pulls at your heartstrings, filled with betrayals and revelations that keep you on the edge of your seat. The cliffhanger is superb, leaving you eagerly anticipating the next book.

Gold is a masterful blend of emotional storytelling, character development, and intricate plotlines. It's a gripping read that will leave you wanting more, and the wait for the next book is sure to be filled with anticipation. Raven Kennedy has truly outdone herself with this installment.

Kennedy has a unique ability to write a chonky book that doesn’t feel long. She is able to sweep you away into the story where the outside world doesn’t exist — just Auren, Slade, Queen Malina, and those around them. Gold picks up following the devastating events of Glow and man oh man was there a lot of story covered in Gold. The bulk of the story is told through Auren, Slade, and Queen Malina, though there are other POVs as well. Through Auren we’re able to learn more about the world of the Fae as well as experience further world building. I really love the new characters introduced to Auren. Queen Malina and Slade are on the other side of the divide and bring news of what’s happening across the 7 kingdoms. Both lands are rife with heartbreak and betrayals that will leave you in complete shock. I, personally, thought the book was paced well - there was plenty of action and political intrigue to keep me invested. After finishing this, I’m so glad Kennedy decided to break the final story into 2 separate books. There was so much that still needed to be explored, and I think the story would have suffered to try and complete it in one book. I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see how Kennedy wraps it up.