Blue Voodoo: An Adult Fairy Tale Retelling Romantasy Series

As I said in my review for book 1, this series follows the Blood Prince series and though you don't absolutely have to read it to read these, it would be a very good idea. Blue Voodoo is about the pirate Julian "Bluebeard" and the Voodoo Queen Laveau (not Marie, but Dominique, gotta keep it interesting) and their...complicated affair. I will admit that I have never actually come across a Bluebeard story either in childhood or since, so this is my first impression of him. That being said, I cannot comment on it's similarities or lack thereof to the original tale. I have read a good bit about Marie Laveau (good and bad, there are SO many stories), and I can say Mrs. Blackstream kept a good bit of Voudon lore in this book. To give you the gist: Julian and Dominique had a night of lowered inhibitions that included lots of promises of the future, but in true pirate fashion, Julian is gone with sun. Dominique sets a curse on him to forever have a blue beard (not just something he can cover up or keep shaved either-she made sure that the magic made him always noticeable). The story takes place 10 years after this incident when Julian's life has been made rather difficult due to his extremely remarkable appearance, when he returns to her home and announces his plans to marry her. Much to her utter dismay. Through the story we come to realize that these two definitely still love one another, and Julian's leaving had more to do with his fear of being bound to a magic user than his fear of commitment. The story involves shifters, magic, swamp monsters, three evil witches (those are the wives) who aren't quite zombies, and a lot of growth and acceptance on both our lovebirds parts. I enjoyed watching Julian overcome his fears and take them on in the name of love. It was a good feeling. I only gave this four stars because I felt Dominique fell a bit flat as a character and as a power. She was still lovable, don't get me wrong, I just felt she was really a background character more than a main. I enjoyed getting to see Tenoch again, as well as everyone's reaction to him. Poor guy, he's just so damned stoic. All in all, it was an enjoyable read and a good addition to the set. I rather enjoyed the last chapter with Saamal and the other princes. Made me all giddy.