West of Want by Laura Kaye (Hearts of the Anemoi #2)

Betrayal is all he’s ever known, but in her, he’ll find a love strong enough to be trusted…

When Marcella Raines’ twin brother dies, she honors his request to be buried at sea, never expecting the violent storm that swamps her boat. Recently divorced over her infertility and gravely injured, Ella still fights to survive.

Zephyros Martius is the Supreme God of the West Wind and Spring, but being the strongest Anemoi hasn’t saved him from betrayal and loss—worse, he’s sure his brother Eurus is behind it. When Zeph’s heartbreak whips up a storm that shipwrecks a human, his guilt leads him to save her, but he vows not to get involved.

Ella’s honesty, empathy, and unique calming influence attract Zeph like no other, and he finds himself wanting…everything. Ella knows Zeph’s different and fears rejection, but falls for his otherworldly masculinity and ancient, sad blue eyes. When Eurus threatens Ella, she and Zeph struggle to let go of the past, defend their future, and embrace what they most want—a love that can be trusted

Grace

Delve into the Realm of Gods!

North of Need is one of my favorites! I adored Megan and Owen's story! So it was natural that I highly anticipated its sequel.

“Undeniably, there was some connection between them, and he found himself flirting with the most dangerous emotion there was—hope.” --West of Want, Laura Kaye

Zephyros Martius is a sensitive Supreme God of the West Wind and Spring. As his story unfolds you'll find out why. When he's upset, he can stir up a strong storm like no other. So, he was just blowing off steam over the water when he accidentally injures Ella Raines, who was out on her boat spreading the ashes of her twin brother.

Ella and Zeph each have endured great loss and betrayal that trust is a major issue to both of them. As their instant chemistry blossoms into something more, they must work through a mountain of obstacles...one of them being Zeph's brother, Eurus. Oh boy, does he create havoc for them! Now this is where the story really delves into the Realm of Gods. We get a more detailed view of this world than we did in North of Need. When Zeph finally tells his story to Ella, it is like he is describing a soap opera! So much drama happens in the Anemoi world! We get introduced to a few more gods, among them being Chrysander, whose story will be next in South of Surrender. He seems very interesting!

What I enjoy about this series is the subtle way it pays homage to the environment and nature, and how it is woven into the story lines. The setting of Annapolis, Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay is both perfect and beautiful for Ella and Zeph's story. Emotional, sensual, heartbreaking, and magical, West of Want proves to be a worthy addition to the Hearts of the Anemoi series.