A Spellbinding Encounter: Review of Do Your Worst by Rosie Danan
From the moment I stumbled upon the intriguing premise of Do Your Worst, I felt an irresistible pull. Who wouldn’t want to dive into the world of curses and secrets nestled within the Scottish Highlands? Rosie Danan, the author, has a knack for crafting spellbinding tales, and this one certainly didn’t disappoint.
The story revolves around Riley Rhodes, an American occult expert with a flair for the supernatural, tasked with lifting a 300-year-old curse at the enigmatic Arden Castle. Enter Clark Edgeware, a disgraced English archaeologist who sees Riley as a direct threat to his professional redemption. Their instant chemistry—wrapped in a delightful enemies-to-lovers trope—sets the stage for a captivating narrative filled with tension and humor. “Do your worst,” Clark challenges Riley, and from there, their verbal sparring leads to an unpredictable mix of rivalry and attraction.
One of the most delightful aspects for me was the atmospheric setting. Having a soft spot for Scotland, I felt fully immersed in the moody landscapes and eerie castle vibes that Danan so masterfully paints. The rich lore surrounding Scotland’s castles adds an extra layer of charm and authenticity to the plot, making it a wholly enjoyable escape.
Riley and Clark are layered characters grappling with their pasts. Riley’s struggle to reconcile her family’s legacy of curse-breaking with her fears of love is relatable, as is Clark’s quest for approval from his esteemed father. Their journeys toward trust and vulnerability resonate even more as they challenge each other—at times harshly—with sharp banter that takes the reader on an emotional rollercoaster. At times, their hostility felt a little forced, almost as if they were struggling against their own magnetic attraction. Yet, when their walls finally come down, the love confessions felt genuine, and I couldn’t help but smile like an idiot.
The spice level? Oh, it’s sizzling! The tension between them is palpable, keeping you on the edge of your seat. The steamy encounters are not just physical; they’re laced with emotional stakes that elevate the experience. From edgy dialogue to some surprisingly hot moments of passion, Danan pushes boundaries delightfully. “You better keep that mouth occupied,” Clark says, a perfect encapsulation of their delicious dynamic.
While the book was greatly enjoyable, the third-person perspective sometimes left me feeling slightly detached. There were moments of deep internal conflict that might have hit harder if delivered through a first-person lens. Similarly, there were a few back-and-forth exchanges between Riley and Clark that lacked clarity, making me question their motivations.
Overall, if you’re in the mood for an enthralling enemies-to-lovers story packed with paranormal intrigue and set against the stunning backdrop of the Scottish Highlands, Do Your Worst is the perfect pick. Rosie Danan has created an entertaining read that’s fun, sexy, and just the right amount of chaotic—ideal for anyone who loves witty banter and tantalizing romantic tension.
Thank you, Berkley Romance and NetGalley, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. This book left me wanting more—not just of Riley and Clark’s adventure, but of Danan’s storytelling magic. So, grab your favorite blanket, settle in, and enjoy this delightful ride!
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