Bumpy Oak Books

**I was provided an electronic ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for honest review.**

4 stars

MarcyKate Connelly’s newest book, Twin Daggers, pits technology against magic in a tale of star-crossed lovers. Readers follow Aissa and her twin, Zandria. Their magic is different in that it is able to affect both organic material and machines. Aissa and Zandria must keep this trait hidden from the Magi and the Technocrats, even as they work as spies for the Magi cause. As the story unfolds, the sisters learn that politics rarely leads to loyalty that is black and white, and their allies may not always be who they think.

This book was fast paced and combined a variety of classic tropes in a way that felt refreshing and modern. I read this book in one sitting, as Connelly’s writing style made it so easy to get sucked in and just keep making progress. Nothing was particularly unexpected as far as plot or “twists” went, but I think Connelly still executed the writing well. Being able to anticipate what would happen did not affect my enjoyment of the story, though if you’re someone who isn’t a fan of transparent plot lines, it may be better to leave this story to younger fantasy readers who may not be as familiar with common plot devices.

My favorite character was undeniably Aro, and I look forward to seeing how his choices affect future books. This book sets up well for a series, and I am certainly interested in continuing in the future.