Did Enchantra Surpass Phantasma or Am I Just a Sucker for Complicated FMCs

Title: Enchantra

Author: Kaylie Smith

Series: Wicked Games

Publisher: Second Sky

Rating: 4 ★

When I first opened Enchantra by Kaylie Smith, I was filled with excitement and a hint of concern. The previous book, Phantasma, set a very high standard, and I worried that the sequel might not deliver that same thrilling ride. However, to my delight, Enchantra not only met my expectations but arguably exceeded them. Yet, it's hard to discuss this book without addressing my main irritation: the main female character, Genevieve.

Let me break this down because my feelings toward her were quite mixed. On one hand, I admired her strength and independence, but on the other hand, she often came off as stubborn. Genevieve’s refusal to listen to the warnings of others—especially in a game where she was up against powerful beings—was at times frustrating. At one point, she was warned about an upcoming trap, but she kept ignoring it. When someone's genuinely trying to keep you safe in a life-or-death scenario, taking a moment to listen could change everything.

The Strong Independent Female Character Debate

The conversation surrounding strong independent female characters (FMCs) is quite complex, and Genevieve exemplifies this discussion. There were many instances where I found myself shaking my head at her choices. It's empowering to see a woman portrayed as strong, but when that strength turns into reckless defiance, it can become tiresome. Would it really have hurt her to lean on others for support? Am I being unfair? Is it because I'm at least 15 years older than Genevieve? I'm sure I was just as stubborn when I was her age.

In contrast, Rowin, the supporting male character, truly won me over. His character development was engaging, and he added a refreshing dynamic to the plot. I found myself wishing Genevieve would trust him more. The idea of a fake marriage with a hot shadow wraith? Sign me up.

The Silver Family: A Treasure Trove of Stories

What truly made Enchantra shine was not just Genevieve's journey, but also the fascinating Silver family. Each member brought their own unique complexities and backstories, making them an essential part of the plot. The family’s interactions captured the essence of close-knit relationships that can make a narrative resonant and engaging.

Moments of humor, drama, and family duty wove together beautifully, forming an emotional core that supported the fast-paced storyline. Their relationships added layers to the narrative, and I found myself as invested in their outcomes as much as in Genevieve's. I would love to read an entire prequel focused on the Silver family, especially to learn more about their adventures before Enchantra.

The Thrill of Death Trials

Another captivating aspect of both Phantasma and Enchantra is the death trials. For those who have read either book, the tension during these sequences is unmistakable. The stakes are incredibly high, with twists that leave readers on edge. These moments are brilliant at keeping readers guessing, and I find myself eagerly awaiting the next shocking turn.

Looking ahead to the upcoming third book, I feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. Will the death trials continue to be as gripping, or will the narrative take on a different focus? I hope the next book maintains that electrifying energy because the suspense is what makes these stories so engaging.

Anticipation for the Third Book

The buzz surrounding the potential for a third book has me brimming with excitement! Fans are already speculating about the potential twists and character developments we might see. Personally, I am hoping for more thrilling death trials, character growth, and intriguingly complex dynamics—especially with Rowin. Given the pattern of the first two books, I suspect we are in for a wild adventure.

What is clear is that Enchantra has set a very positive precedent. It is rare to find a sequel that not only matches but possibly surpasses the beloved first book in a series. It could be the way complicated FMCs resonate with me, or perhaps it is simply the gripping elements of the storyline that keep pulling me back. Either way, I plan to be there on the first day the third book is available.

Final Thoughts

While I have my frustrations with Genevieve’s character, I can't overlook the overall enjoyment I found in Enchantra. Sure, it has its flaws, particularly regarding how the FMC is portrayed. However, the rich storytelling, complex characters, and exhilarating death trials made it a memorable read. As I anticipate the third book, I am reminded that these stories, with their ups and downs, are why we keep coming back for more. I hope it lives up to the excitement!

I encourage fans of Phantasma or anyone who enjoys intricate character dynamics to give Enchantra a try. Whether you find yourself rolling your eyes at Genevieve or cheering her on, this journey promises to be nothing short of captivating. I can’t wait to hear your thoughts after you've read it!