I read Painted Devils because it’s the second book in the series, and I loved Little Thieves. This book is completely worth it, and it’s definitely one of the better sequels of all the series’ I’ve read. This is the sequel to Little Thieves, and it’s set in the same world. Painted Devils is a fantasy setting, not too advanced in terms of technology but there are trade and politics, which are well developed as well. This book shows Vanja as she accidentally starts a cult, and consequently has to destroy it. It also contains moments in which Vanja realizes that she really enjoys bringing rich people who exploit others, and don’t follow the laws they set, to justice. Though it isn’t the main plot, I found it entertaining, and it fed into the main plot.
There were so many favorite things in this book, many of which are interactions between characters. There is a scene I particularly love in which Vanja begins to distress Emeric (her love interest), which results in this wonderful quote: “I cut myself off; I’m pretty sure turning that shade of red is a sign of distress in most breeds of uncooked noodle.” Emeric is also called a protractor many times, which is simply amazing. You can feel in the writing that the author had fun writing this, and it makes it all so much more fun. In the beginning of one chapter, Vanja sees one of the poems Emeric has been writing about her, “‘You are,'” I read aloud over his shoulder, “‘ my fire, the one desire—'” Which was just a fun addition, I laughed a lot at this book. Additionally, the struggles Vanja has with self worth hit hard, and the support of the people around her is heartwarming to watch. However, there were a few scenes in which it was a little confusing as to where people were in terms of space, and objects as well. The ending was also devastating, and while it is the natural conclusion I wish it wasn’t. The final problem I had with this book is that book three can’t come out soon enough… it’s scheduled for 2025.
I definitely recommend this book, it’s almost perfection. If you waited until book 3 came out, it would probably be easier to read.