“Exodus” by Kate Stewart – An Audiobook Review
⭐ Rating: 5/5
Year Published: 2020
Genre: Dark Romance, New Adult
Page Count: 452 (14.5 hr audiobook)
Narrators: Maxine Mitchell & Joe Arden (Duet Narration)
Quick Summary
Exodus is the second installment in Kate Stewart's The Ravenhood series, picking up where Flock left off. The story continues to follow Cecelia, who finds herself entangled in a complex web of love, betrayal, and secrets within the enigmatic Ravenhood organization. As she navigates her tumultuous relationships with Sean, Dominic, and the mysterious Tobias King, Cecelia is forced to confront harsh truths about herself and those she loves. The novel delves deeper into the clandestine activities of the Ravenhood, revealing the high stakes and personal sacrifices involved.
What I Loved
Emotional Rollercoaster: This book took me on a wild ride of emotions—I laughed, I cried, I got angry, and then cried some more. The depth of feeling it evoked is a testament to Stewart's storytelling prowess.
Complex Characters: Cecelia's relationships with Sean, Dominic, and Tobias are intricate and deeply flawed, making them feel real and relatable. Each character's motivations and actions kept me guessing and fully invested in their journeys.
Intriguing Plot Twists: The revelations about the Ravenhood's true purpose and the secrets each character harbors added layers of complexity to the narrative, keeping me hooked from start to finish.
Narration: The duet narration by Maxine Mitchell and Joe Arden brought the characters to life, enhancing the emotional impact of the story. Their performances added depth to the listening experience, making it even more immersive.
What Didn't Quite Work for Me
Cecelia's Desperation: At times, Cecelia's actions and decisions felt overly desperate and cringy, making it challenging to fully empathize with her character.
Ambiguity in Relationships: The quick transitions in Cecelia's romantic entanglements, especially her swift involvement with Tobias after Dominic and Sean, left me questioning the depth of her feelings and the authenticity of the relationships.
Who Should Read This?
If you're a fan of dark, emotionally charged romances with complex characters and intricate plots, Exodus is a must-read. It's perfect for readers who enjoy stories that challenge their emotions and keep them guessing until the very end.
Final Thoughts
Exodus is a powerful continuation of The Ravenhood series that doesn't shy away from exploring the messy, painful aspects of love and loyalty. It broke me down and stitched me back together, leaving a lasting impression. Be prepared for an intense emotional journey that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.