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Knightley has done the unthinkable and written an exceptional sequel that is so dazzling in its world building, so delightfully irreverent, and so undeniably sexy that readers are certain to love it as much as (or more than!) the first book in the series (The Irresistible Urge to Fall for Your Enemy, 2025). Book Two plunges readers quickly back into the incredibly well-developed world of the Tiendoms and the love-hate relationship between Aurienne Fairhrim and Osric Mordaunt, two members of opposing magical Orders. Thanks to Aurienne’s ministrations, Osric’s seith rot has slowed, and because of their joint amateur investigation, so too has the vile pox affecting children across the kingdoms. The cause of the pox is still a mystery, however, and the pair discover political machinations and foul intrigue at every turn. Perhaps most disturbing of all is that assassin-for-hire Osric finds himself beginning to care for do-gooder Aurienne. As the book hurtles toward a breathtaking and deeply satisfying conclusion, the two must come to terms with shifts in what they believe in, several significant and deadly betrayals, and the development of a relationship that may be the start of something real. The book ties a delightful bow on a perfectly executed duology that will resonate far past the last page.

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Aurienne Fairhrim heals people for a living, while Osric Mordaunt kills them for money. Osric has racked up enough funds to bribe Aurienne into healing his incurable condition that would be a death sentence for his job and therefore his life. While Aurienne subjects Osric to healing based on forgotten folk legends and magic, the two uncover a conspiracy among ruling factions to spread the Pox, which is killing masses of children. Osric normally wouldn't expend his skills without some sort of reward, but he goes out of his way to do so for Aurienne. She should be looking forward to the day she will no longer have to conduct healing sessions on Osric, but the thought of parting ways leaves her feeling dejected. They both feel that a relationship is unthinkable, yet their time together has changed each other fundamentally, blurring boundaries and loyalties. Good versus evil has never been more confusing. VERDICT Osric's melodramatic tendencies and Aurienne's intelligence and sharp wit create a biting humor and riotously fun romance, that when countered with genuinely tender moments and deadly intrigue, makes the second and final "Dearly Beloathed" book (after The Irresistible Urge to Fall For Your Enemy) nearly impossible to put down. Highly recommended.—Eve Stano