LaFevers, Robin. Dark Triumph. (His Fair Assassin, Book II)

LaFevers, Robin.  Dark Triumph.  (His Fair Assassin, Book II)     Houghton Mifflin  2013  388p  ISBN 978-0-547-62838-7  hs/adult    Hardback    VG-BN  Fantasy   

When the novel Grave Mercy introduced an order of nun assassins to readers, teens and adults devoured the tale of Ismae, a well-trained but inexperienced novice on her first assignment.  Those readers will not be disappointed by Sybella’s story, which is darker and more intense and introduces a much more seasoned assassin.

Sybella shows a diamond-hard facade to the world to hide wounds inflicted by hurt and betrayal of her psyche.  She has unresolved doubts about her god and her father, Mortain, and she is unable to trust anyone.  She is isolated and suffering.  But Sybella finds warmth and compassion in Beast.  Beast is as ugly and terrifying on the surface as Sybella feels inside.  A wary alliance is kindled into romance. 

LaFevers has written a dark tale of plots, violence and unlikely romance.  Her greatest strength lies in the compelling characters she creates.  Readers will enjoy this absorbing adventure even if they haven’t read the first book.  But have Grave Mercy on hand -- they are bound to come back to demand it!

Summary: Sybella, a cold-hearted assassin, finds redemption in an unlikely character: Beast.  This is the sequel to Grave Mercy, which introduced an order of nun assassins.

Assassins-Fiction, Romance-Fiction, Death-Fiction                 --Hilary Welliver