Review: The Blood of the Hydra (Elementals #2) by Michelle Madow

Title: The Blood of the Hydra

Series: Elementals #2
Author: Michelle Madow
Publisher: Dreamscape Publishing
Publication Date: April 18, 2016
Pages: 310
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy, Mythology, Paranormal
Source: ARC, Netgalley
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A demigod who can kill with a touch. It's an ability that must be kept secret, even from those trusted most.

Finding out that she was a witch was strange enough, but now Nicole must face the realization that she has the rare power to kill with just a touch. No one can know her secret -- not even Blake, who she's had undeniable chemistry with since first moving to town. 

Now Nicole, Blake, and the three others with elemental powers must stop a series of monsters that they previously believed to be dead from rising once again and destroying the mortal world. The creatures they face on this journey will be more dangerous than anything they've encountered yet. Will they all survive the quest? And how long will it be until Nicole is forced to use her ability to kill in front of everyone, revealing the true darkness of her powers? 

Find out in The Blood of the Hydra, and join the Elementals on their quest to save the world -- or die trying.

MY REVIEW

I received this book for free from the author and publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I raced through the first book in this series and I enjoyed it very much, so I knew that I would be picking up the second book! The Blood of the Hydra picks up where The Prophecy of Shadows leaves off. If you are familiar with Michelle Madow's writing and love her fast-paced books, then you will love this one as well!

The thing that has drawn me into this series is the unique premise. I love the way that Greek mythology in integrated into the story to make it what it is. The magic/witches angle is wholly original, and I am such a fan of it! 

The pacing is quite fast. If you love short and breezy reads, then this series is one that you should pick up. Though since it is such a fast-paced read, there aren't as many details. The story, while interesting and unique, lacks depth. 

The plot of the book is strong and compelling. I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next. I love books that can take hold of me and drive. The suspense was great. I eagerly anticipated the outcome.

There is plenty of action and adventure in this book, which I love! It was balanced out quite nicely with the rest of the story.

The characters didn't really develop more in the second book. They pretty much stayed the same. I would have loved to see more into each character. We did get a little more from Nicole and Blake, but only because of the romance. I needed to know more about the characters past, inner workings, and drive. I did love the addition of new characters to the story. It was refreshing to see the change in dynamic and chemistry. 

Overall, this is a quick and enjoyable read. The story is very fun, and will hold you until the last page. If you liked the first book in this series then you will like this one as well. I will definitely be continuing this series!

Do you enjoy any books based on mythology? If so, what are your favorites?