A decent fantasy novel filled with strong leads and an action packed adventure. The chemistry between the leads were obvious but unfortunately that wasn't enough for me to be really draw into the story. More often than none I found myself skimming through the pages which was surprising since I normally gravitate towards stories like this. I'm assuming due to the fact that this is the third book of the story, I was missing out some key components that were mentioned in previous books that prevented me from really immersing myself into the read. I will definitely consider picking this off where I left it in the future when catching up with the book series.

I enjoyed this book, even though it was the third in a series I haven’t read. I found the character of Gregor was instantly fascinating, the connection between him and Isela was mysterious at the beginning and I wanted to find out more straight away. Ana the heroine was also very well drawn with a tragic past, and an quite isolated present. The way that the author handled the flashbacks for both characters was well done, and I was itching to find out more about them both the whole way through the book. I found some of the world building passages a little laboured, but I felt the interactions between the main characters were satisfying and drove the story forward well. I thought the way Gregor was instantly on Ana’s team was a really nice touch as it humanised a very controlled character instantly and made me root for him. I also really appreciated the way Gregor let Ana take the lead repeatedly, and how he supported her generally.

I am off to read books 1&2.

Recommended.

I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Also posted on Goodreads

The Talon & the Blade, Grace Bloods: Book 3, Jasmine Silvera

Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews

Genre: General Fiction (adult), Sci-fi and Fantasy

I loved the first book in this series, but found it a little harder to connect with the second, and again with this one. That's not to say its not an excellent read though, just one of those where I think I'll get more from it on second ( or more ) readings. I love to go back to back through a series when all books are complete, really immerse myself and this series is one that will work well for that.
Gregor, he's been an enigma since the first book, and I really enjoyed seeing his backstory, and seeing the attraction between him and Ana. It was interesting too being in another necromancers realm, Raymond is very different to Azreal, seems very distant from his Aegis, where Azreal and his people feel like there are respectful but friends, that he supports them in their actions. Raymond sends Ana off to deal with issues in this book with the minimum of information, which brings her into great danger. Gregor knows Azreal would never do that, and its interesting comparing two such distinct styles of rule.
I love that Jasmine has created such a fabulously different world, but it does take a bit of understanding. Fortunately the books have been released fairly close so the stories, settings and characters are still pretty fresh in my head.

Stars: Four. I enjoyed this story very much, just not as much as the first tow books. At times I was a little lost about what was actually happening, the story behind the story so to speak. I think re-reading will sort that though.

Arc via Netgalley and publishers

The Talon & the Blade is a fantastic action packed book that is well written and has fabulous characters. This is the first I have read by the author and I will read more.

Another great read from Ms. Silvera , I am 100% biased I love her books and I was so excited as I loved Gregor so was excited to hear he had his own book and was so happy to get an ARC to review. This is fast paced, fun, full of chemistry and sass. The new character Ana I adored, which you’re always worried about in an established series when you know and love the characters. It’s a great read and I look forward to so many more books from Jasmine

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion

WOW! I love this latest book in the series. Gregor is one of my favorite characters and getting his story is a treat. The expansion of the world building is phenomenal. This one grabs you from the beginning and never let's go. There is action, suspense, sexy romance, and complex characters. I can't wait to get the next one. This is one of my favorite new series and authors. Highly recommend!

I recommend this book for anyone who loves fantasy and wants a sexy action packed story. I loved it, it reminded me of many cool sci-fi movies and TV shows.
I loved the Nightfeathers Talons - aka Ana so much, and I’m dying to read the rest of the series and get immersed in this magical realm and the politics of the ancient necromancers.

I enjoyed the book and really liked it. Waiting to hear more from the author. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the arc.