Rebel Witch

3.5⭐sPredictable but wonderful.“Sometimes our paths must diverge from those we love,” Antonio said as they rode, side by side, scanning the surrounding mountains. “But if love is the highest power, our paths will converge again—if not in this world, then the next."

The Rebel Witch delivers an action-packed finale to The Crimson Moth duology, but for me, it didn’t quite capture the gripping intensity of the first book. The story picks up with Rune on the run after Gideon’s betrayal, forced into an uneasy alliance with Cressida Roseblood. Rune’s struggle to balance survival with the growing weight of her choices creates an intriguing moral complexity, though at times her decisions felt repetitive.The tension between Rune and Gideon remains a highlight. Their dynamic is layered with unresolved feelings and mistrust, as Gideon wrestles with his hatred for witches and the part of him that still cares for Rune. While their interactions are compelling, the emotional stakes didn’t hit as hard this time around, feeling more like a slow burn without the payoff of The Crimson Moth.The larger conflict—Cressida’s plans to reinstate the Reign of Witches versus Gideon’s determination to protect the Republic—raises the stakes, but the pacing occasionally falters. The middle section felt bogged down by prolonged political manoeuvring, which dulled some of the urgency. However, the action scenes were as thrilling as ever, and the climax delivered a satisfying resolution to the central conflict.While The Rebel Witch didn’t keep me as hooked as its predecessor, it’s still a solid read for fans of the series. If you enjoyed the first book, you’ll want to see how it all ends, even if the journey isn’t quite as spellbinding this time around.

Rating: 4.5 stars.✦︎ “It might look like weakness on the surface. But in truth, it’s tougher than steel. Love can’t be controlled. Love can’t obey unjust laws. Love will always oppose tyrants.”⋆.˚