A review by mom2three
Black Light: Brave by Maren Smith

5.0

This one gutted me from beginning to end, and I cried more times while reading this than I care to admit. I was heartbroken and then I was beyond happy, but both things made me cry. If you have read the other Menagerie books you will know what I'm talking about when I say this was a hard read. Not because the story wasn't well written, but because it was too well written. The anxiety, fear, pain, and longing we're almost more than I could deal with. Maybe it's partly because I have dealt with those issues. Maybe it's because I also know the strength that comes from finding yourself again. Maybe it's because Maren has a way of creating deep bonds between her characters and her readers. Maybe it's because the story isn't just about puppy, but also the pain of everyone involved. Whatever the reason, this one broke me more than any dark read ever has, and it's not a dark read in the least. It's a beautiful story about strength, support, rebirth, and love that can overcome even the worst experiences. I never wanted it to end, but end it did. I have loved every one of the Black Lights books, but the Menagerie girls will always hold a special place in my heart. I can't wait for Pony to also find her feet again, but I'm sure I'll cry even more through that one than I did this one.
If you love to read character driven books that have beautiful love stories and happy endings than this one shouldn't be missed. It was all I could have hoped for, and more. Bravo Ms. Smith! Bravo!