Book Review: Deacon (The Sovereign Mountain, #3) by Raya
From the moment I read the blurb of "Deacon," I knew I was in for a ride I couldn’t resist. Give me a brooding man working with horses who becomes instantly obsessed with a strong female lead, and I’m sold—it’s practically a genre of its own! Raya has woven a compelling tale that not only hooks you with its romance but also delves deep into the complexities of trauma, trust, and reclamation.
At the heart of the story lies Freya, a character whose burdens feel so heavy that, at times, you just want to reach into the pages and offer her a helping hand. Life has dealt her a terrible hand, and she grapples with the emotional scars left behind by her upbringing. Deacon, too, comes from a rough background, which makes their connection even more poignant. The way these two navigate their respective pasts while slowly opening up to each other is beautifully written.
Deacon is unintentionally hilarious—a lovable rogue who balances toughness with a surprisingly sweet side. His lines had me chuckling, especially when he remarked, “No tracker on her phone ’cause it’s invasive…but I’m going to clone it so I can see her texts :)” It’s this blend of humor and depth that really makes him stand out as a character. And let’s not forget the spice; Freya takes us by surprise with her fiery confidence, turning what was once painful into a reclamation of her own power. Their dynamic is electric, providing a masterclass in how trust can flourish in even the most challenging situations.
One major highlight for me was the way the book portrays Freya’s journey of self-acceptance and empowerment. Quotes like, “I always feel loved now. That has changed me, fundamentally rewiring my brain, healing my heart,” resonated deeply, painting a picture of what it means to break cycles of fear and pain. Watching her evolve through her relationship with Deacon was an emotional rollercoaster that made me root for her wholeheartedly.
However, no book is without its pacing issues. Around the 64% mark, I did feel the story slow down a bit, and I couldn’t help but get a tad frustrated with Freya’s hesitations. I understood her fears, but at times, I found myself wanting to shake her and say, "Just trust him already!" Thankfully, the pace picked back up, and their deepening connection brought a refreshing sense of momentum.
As I reached the climax of the story, I couldn’t help but flex my (delusional) detective skills—until I was entirely wrong, which made me chuckle at my own overconfidence! The dramatic resolution tied everything together beautifully, leaving me hungry to learn more about the other characters, Sovereign and Westin.
If you’re drawn to stories of healing, love, and rediscovery wrapped in humor and spice, I wholeheartedly recommend "Deacon." It’s not just a romance—it’s an exploration of what it means to find love and acceptance, especially amidst the chaos of past traumas. Thank you to The Author Agency and Raya for the ARC; this one truly touched my heart.
In conclusion, whether you’re a fan of romantic suspense or just looking for a compelling story that weaves emotional depth with sizzling chemistry, "Deacon" is a journey well worth taking. Prepare to laugh, cry, and cheer as Freya and Deacon reclaim their lives—in each other’s arms and beyond.
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