M.J. Marstens' Total Lunar Eclipse is a whirlwind of fantasy, romance, and action that continues the saga of Venus the Genius, a character who has captivated readers with her wit, charm, and relentless determination. This installment in the series is a testament to Marstens' ability to blend humor with high stakes, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant.

The story picks up with Venus on a mission that is as dangerous as it is personal: to kill Moon or face dire consequences. From the outset, the stakes are high, and Marstens does an excellent job of maintaining tension throughout the novel. The blurb hints at the urgency and chaos that permeates the story, and the book delivers on this promise with a fast-paced plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

One of the standout elements of Total Lunar Eclipse is its character development. Venus is a protagonist who is both relatable and aspirational. Her journey is not just about saving the world but also about understanding her own heart and the depths of her love for her man-gods. Marstens crafts Venus with a complexity that allows her to be both fierce and vulnerable, a combination that makes her a compelling lead. Her relationships with the man-gods are central to the narrative, and the emotional depth of these connections adds a layer of richness to the story.

The antagonist, Lina, is equally well-developed. Described as accumulating more power with each passing second, Lina is a formidable foe whose motivations are as intriguing as they are terrifying. Her transition from playing to win to playing to kill adds a chilling dimension to the plot, and her interactions with Venus are charged with tension and unpredictability.

Marstens' writing style is another highlight of the book. Her use of humor, often through Venus' witty internal monologue, provides a counterbalance to the darker elements of the story. Lines like "I’m elbow deep in some sh*t" and "Trust Tree Sisters, take arms" showcase Marstens' knack for blending humor with urgency, creating a narrative voice that is both engaging and distinctive.

The themes explored in Total Lunar Eclipse are both universal and specific to the fantasy genre. Love, sacrifice, and the battle between good and evil are at the forefront, but Marstens also delves into the idea of power and its corrupting influence. The curse that Venus must break is not just a plot device but a metaphor for the personal and external battles that each character faces. This thematic depth adds a layer of complexity to the story, elevating it beyond a simple fantasy adventure.

In terms of world-building, Marstens excels at creating a universe that is both expansive and detailed. The inclusion of different dimensions and the concept of calling upon "ol’ Blue" adds a sense of wonder and possibility to the narrative. The world of Total Lunar Eclipse is one where magic and reality intertwine seamlessly, and Marstens' attention to detail ensures that readers are fully immersed in this fantastical setting.

Comparatively, Marstens' work can be likened to that of authors like Sarah J. Maas and Cassandra Clare, who also excel in creating strong female protagonists and intricate fantasy worlds. However, Marstens sets herself apart with her unique blend of humor and heart, crafting a story that is as funny as it is poignant.

Overall, Total Lunar Eclipse is a captivating addition to M.J. Marstens' series. It is a book that will appeal to fans of fantasy and romance alike, offering a story that is both thrilling and emotionally satisfying. Marstens has crafted a narrative that is rich in character and theme, ensuring that readers will be eagerly awaiting the next installment in Venus the Genius' adventures.

For those who enjoy stories where the stakes are high, the characters are complex, and the humor is sharp, Total Lunar Eclipse is a must-read. It is a testament to Marstens' skill as a storyteller and her ability to create a world that is as enchanting as it is perilous. As the Total Lunar Eclipse approaches, readers will find themselves racing alongside Venus, hoping for a resolution that is as satisfying as the journey itself.