Rogue (Prep, #2) by K. A. Linde: A Bittersweet Continuation
When I first dove into K.A. Linde’s Misfit, I was immediately captivated by the raw, emotional turmoil and the connections that twisted like a vine among the characters. So, naturally, picking up Rogue, the second installment in the Prep series, felt like reuniting with old friends. I was eager to see where the drama would take Casey and Fenn. However, this book surprised me in ways I hadn’t anticipated, and not all of them were good.
From the outset, I appreciated Linde’s ability to weave character arcs through the narrative. While we are introduced to a new couple in each book, the overarching themes of friendship, love, and personal growth continue to bloom throughout the series. But here’s my warning: if you’re thinking of reading this as a standalone, think again. The story doesn’t exist in a vacuum, and you’ll miss vital context that enriches the characters’ journeys.
One of my joys in Misfit was sympathizing with Casey, whose quiet resilience tugged at my heartstrings. However, in Rogue, we witness a startling transformation. She evolves from the timid character I once rooted for into this fierce ball buster. I admired her newfound strength and assertiveness, yet it felt rather abrupt. This 180-degree turn left me scratching my head at times; while empowering, it strayed a bit too far from her established personality.
The story arc pivots around Casey’s accident, which carries significant weight and intrigue. Although the unfolding mystery was compelling, I found myself disappointed by the romance between Casey and Fenn. Their chemistry, once electric, fizzled to a mere spark. A pivotal event not only disrupted their relationship but left me feeling frustrated rather than heartbroken. The lack of affection and the decisions Casey makes toward the latter half of the novel felt unnecessary and out of character, almost muting the very essence of romance that should have driven this narrative.
I found myself flipping back through passages, searching for the heart-stirring moments I had previously enjoyed. Instead, I encountered a sense of detachment. The secondary characters, RJ and Sloane, also took a turn for the worse; Sloane’s antics made her unbearable for a chunk of the book, which was frustrating. And while I did feel some sympathy for RJ, I questioned his choices surrounding her, wondering if his moral compass had gone awry. It was a jumble of emotions that couldn’t quite resolve into satisfaction.
Despite it all, Rogue kept me entertained, though it took me a solid seven days to finish. The pacing felt sluggish at times and the characters’ heartbreaks became sources of irritation rather than empathy for me. Yet, I still find myself invested in this series, hopeful that the next installment will recalibrate the tone and bring back the spark that initially drew me in.
In conclusion, I’d recommend this book to those who are already fans of the series and are eager to see how the details of Casey’s accident play out. If you’re looking for romance that sizzles, though, you may want to temper your expectations. Overall, Rogue was a mixed bag for me, but I will be watching closely to see how K.A. Linde navigates the story ahead. Here’s hoping for a triumphant return in the third book!
Discover more about Rogue (Prep, #2) on GoodReads >>