Book Review: Renegade (The Captive Series, Book 2) by Erica Stevens
I have a soft spot for stories centered around forbidden love, and when the sequel to Captured landed in my hands, I just knew I had to dive back into Erica Stevens’ enchanting world. The first book made a lasting impact on me, and I was eager to see how the tumultuous romance between Aria, the brave blood slave, and Braith, the conflicted vampire prince, would evolve in Renegade. It didn’t take long for me to be completely absorbed once again.
In Renegade, the emotional stakes are higher than ever. After escaping the confines of the palace, Aria struggles with the haunting memories of Braith—the prince who both captivated and hurt her. As Aria navigates the challenges of rebellion alongside her best friend Max, she embodies resilience and vulnerability, making her a relatable protagonist. This emotional landscape and her quest to find her family provide the perfect backdrop for the simmering tension with Braith, whose transformation into a near-monster out of heartbreak adds layers to his character. The dance between their love and their histories is strikingly poignant, reflecting themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the complexities of healing.
Stevens’ writing style has clearly matured since the first book. The vivid descriptions immerse you in the dark yet alluring world of vampires and the human rebellion. I found myself lost in the intricacies of Braith’s family history and the tense dynamics introduced by new characters. One standout scene was when Aria and Braith finally reunite. The raw emotion in their confrontation felt so real that I could hardly breathe, echoing Alana Garcia’s sentiments about the palpable connection between the characters.
However, I won’t gloss over the pacing—some moments felt a bit rushed, while others lingered a touch too long. This inconsistency seemed to mirror the characters’ chaotic emotions, though, instilling a more organic feel to their turmoil. There were times I wished for deeper exploration in parts of the narrative, especially regarding secondary characters like Max, who, despite being a supportive friend, occasionally felt like more of a plot device than a fully fleshed-out character. But Stevens cleverly balances this with unexpected twists that kept me engaged until the last page.
In this book, one quote struck me, encapsulating the overarching conflict: “Will our love be enough to overcome our past, or will our differences tear us apart forever?” This line beautifully expresses the core of Aria and Braith’s journey and resonated with my own experiences of love and loss.
Renegade ultimately serves as a testament to growth, both for the characters and for Stevens as a writer. Fans of supernatural romances that weave together action and emotional depth will find themselves enthralled. This installment masterfully builds on its predecessor and sets the stage for even more compelling drama in future volumes.
If you’re looking for a series that combines the thrill of rebellion with heart-wrenching romance, look no further than The Captive Series. It’s a hauntingly beautiful exploration of love in a world where danger lurks at every turn—and perhaps, like me, you’ll find yourself eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Aria and Braith’s journey. Happy reading!
You can find Renegade (The Captive Series Book 2) here >>