Kin is the final book in the “A Tale of Beauty and Madness” series by Lili St. Crow. Finally, it is time to hear Ruby’s story. If you thought Ruby would be rebellious in this final installment, you’re wrong. She has reached the age where her Gran expects her to be a perfect kingirl, to get betrothed and start a family. After a childhood of being free and Wild, this is a complete surprise and at first rebels. When Conrad arrives from the Grimtree clan, Ruby decides she is going to do her best to be the perfect clan girl. Conrad seems like a nice guy. He is smart, enjoys Ruby’s driving and has an unusual way of thinking. The more she gets to know him, the more things seem to be wrong. But if that wasn’t enough, the murders begin. Dealing with her own insecurities and her new house guest, she becomes more distant from her friend and more intent on keeping them out of whatever is going on with the clan.
This book is a difficult read, especially if you haven’t read the first book. The author doesn’t bother to explain terms like “Potential” and “Waste”. Despite the difficulty, it is great read. Lili St. Crow puts a spin on the Red Riding Hood fairytale and turns it into a unique and amazing story. Through Ruby’s eyes, you can see how the other characters, like Cami and Ellie, have developed after their story, and see how she develops as women and member of her clan. This 307 page book is a must read, but stands at 3.5 stars because of it difficulty.