Vanguard by Ann Aguirre | Book Review

I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

The New York Times–bestselling Razorland saga from Ann Aguirre continues.

Since the war ended, Tegan has dreamed of an epic journey, so when she has the opportunity to sign on as ship's doctor, she can't wait. It's past time to chart her course. Millie Faraday, the kindest girl in the free territories, also yearns to outrun her reputation, and warrior-poet James Morrow would follow Tegan to the ends of the earth.

Their company seems set, but fate brings one more to their number. Tegan will battle incredible odds while aiding Szarok, the Uroch vanguard, who has ventured forth to save his people. Szarok is strange and beautiful, like a flower that blooms only in the dark. She shouldn't allow him close, as such a relationship is both alien and forbidden. But through stormy seas and strange lands, she will become stronger than she ever knew.

Vanguard by Ann Aguirre reminds me just how little I read companion books despite actually really liking them. I’ll admit, sometimes it feels like authors milk a series for way more than it’s worth. However, Vanguard was such an interesting return to the world of Razorland. It’s a book that feels fresh and new. Frankly, I am so on board with this kind of companion book.

You should probably stop reading here if you want to read the Razorland trilogy. Aguirre’s Vanguard picks up where book three leaves off. Only it does not follow Deuce and Fade. Their stories are done. Rather, now the war is over. There is a sort of peace between the humans and the Urochs that once made up the horde. This book follows three central characters – Tegan the healer, James the storyteller and Szarok who is an Uroch. There’s also Millie, the girl who was first kind to the Urochs. So, anyways, the four main characters begin this amazing journey all for different reasons. The story is well worth the time you spend with the different characters.

Tegan is a character we definitely should remember from the OG trilogy. She has experienced some trauma at the hands of her fellow humans. Now she is a healer. While she heals others, one can see that she also is healing herself. She’s also close friends with Deuce and Fade. Anyways, she is making a trip with Millie. The two end up crossing paths with Szarok who is vanguard of the Urochs and is looking for a permanent home for his people. Eventually James joins their group when they go to his island. There’s sailing and romance and WORLD BUILDING, or at least a deeper explanation of the Urochs.

As you can see, I enjoyed this book. I liked seeing familiar characters again and getting more of the story. We got to see Deuce and Fade and what they are up to — but only for a brief amount of time. There are some high stakes in this story. Plus, some interesting pairings. I felt like Vanguard was really just engaging and exactly what I had hoped for and expected with Ann Aguirre.

Other reviews of Vanguard by Ann Aguirre:

• Arctic Books – “highly recommend this series and its companion“
• Dark Faerie Tales – “this was a lovely read“
• Gizmo’s Reviews – “lots of romance, a bit of action and adventure“

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April (Books&Wine)

April is in her 30s and created Good Books And Good Wine. She works for a non-profit. April always has a book on hand. In her free time she can be found binge watching The Office with her husband and toddler, spending way too much time on Pinterest or exploring her neighborhood.

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