Review of Amber Gambler (The Body Shop, #2) by Hailey Edwards
From the moment I cracked open Amber Gambler, the second installment of Hailey Edwards’ The Body Shop series, I was swept away by the richness of the storytelling and the depth of its characters. After my experience with Fair Market Value, which left me with an array of emotions, I was eager to see where Edwards would take us next. Let me tell you, this book is an absolute treasure, and it genuinely caught me off guard—in the best way possible.
As someone who sometimes takes a moment to connect with new worlds and their inhabitants, I immediately found myself committed to the journey of Frankie Mary. This time, her character resonated with me on such a profound level. Frankie is recovering from a betrayal so deep that it has shaken her very foundation. Her struggle to heal, both physically and emotionally, draws the reader into her life intimately. The emotional backdrop of characters grappling with their past traumas made everything feel so palpable and real.
After the shocking events of the first book, the stakes are even higher in this sequel. With a ghost in need of help—his granddaughter missing—we delve into a plot where the quest for a missing child intertwines with the heartbreaking realities many children face in our society. Edwards tackles serious subjects like trauma in foster care and the failures of societal systems with a sensitivity that is both raw and respectful. Every child’s story urges you to feel deeply for the vulnerabilities all around us, and I found myself reflecting on these issues long after I put the book down.
The pacing is another highlight of this vibrant tale. Edwards masterfully weaves multiple narrative threads—from romance to suspense, blended with mythological elements—keeping me engulfed in Frankie’s emotional journey as she navigates the complexities of her relationships and her evolving identity. Kierse, with his dark charm, and the mysterious crow, Badb, add layers of intrigue and humor that balance the book’s heavier moments. I must confess—I’m fully on Team Kierse! His multidimensional character is becoming one of my favorite aspects of this series.
Moreover, reading about Carter was an unexpected delight. She’s an enigma herself, presenting new facets of her personality that kept me engaged and surprised. The character development here is profound; the flaws and depths each character brings make them feel authentic. This is not just a story about solving a mystery—it’s a narrative about shared trauma, resilience, and the obligations we have to one another.
As I finished the book, I could not help but reflect on that devastating final event—what a powerful end! It left me with swirling emotions and a sense of longing for what comes next. Hailey Edwards has an incredible storytelling capacity, and her vivid portrayal of emotional wounds resonated deeply with me.
In summary, Amber Gambler is a must-read for anyone who appreciates rich character development and intricate storytelling. With Edwards’ exceptional writing, she brings to light not only mysteries but also the human experiences we often overlook. I highly recommend it to fans of urban fantasy, poignant narratives, or those simply looking for a well-crafted book that will linger in your thoughts. Whether you are already invested in The Body Shop series or are new to Edwards’ universe, this book is sure to resonate with you. Just a heads up: once you dive in, you’ll want to stay forever.
I can’t wait to see what happens in Midnight Auto Parts, slated for release next December. It’s a series worth following closely!
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