its_justine's reviews
274 reviews

Those were the times we lived in.

Tomas Piety - soldier, priest, crime boss - returns home after three long years at war, only to find all of his once-thriving businesses stripped from him by an unknown foe. With his brother and fellow soldiers at his back, he means to take back what is rightfully his, no matter the cost. But there's more to this battle than meets the eye and the future of the whole of Ellinberg rests in Tomas' hands. With powerful and influential allies working from the shadows, he must make the hard decisions that will not only keep his men alive, but also ensure the well-being of those he has sworn to protect. This is the beginning of the War for the Rose Throne.

What can I say other than I absolutely LOVED this book. Priest of Bones is definitely one of the most entertaining and intriguing books I've read in a long while, and I wish it never had to end. Right from start I was completely engulfed in a story of the bonds of brotherhood, whether through blood or tried and tested by the horrors of warfare. It's a tale of holding fast to your ideals and staying true to your word, even when it may not be completely beneficial to your own needs. It's about loyalty, faith, and fighting for what's yours, all while making due with the hand you've been dealt. And it is one hell of a story of harsh justice.

Priest of Bones recounts the events of the Pious Men reclaiming their streets through the eyes of Tomas Piety in such an awesome, immersive way, ripe with street slang and colloquialisms that make this feel as though it's a story told and not a story read. Honestly, it's really all the tiny insights that add up that make this book pretty damn amazing. A firsthand account of the effects of battleshock, and how it can push people to feel and act a certain way. The uncertainty faced when the mind and heart battle for supremacy, being forced to choose what's needed rather than what's wanted. The violence, often quite severe, conveyed in such a cool, apathetic way that only a seasoned crime boss or former soldier could ever exude. Tomas faces some serious and dangerous obstacles, yet I can't recall one moment where the tone shifts to one of panic. Everything is executed in just the perfect way, keeping the pages turning, and making it hugely difficult to put the book down.

Sometimes a leader has to keep things to himself and make the hard decisions alone.

The cast of characters McLean has crafted is so beautifully diverse, each complex with their public facades masking their inner demons, rich and tragic histories, and mysterious backgrounds. Each serves a purpose, and none go to waste. I found it pretty impressive that I actually grew to care for many of the large number of players in the game, especially when most can be considered secondary or auxiliary characters. In addition to Jochan, Tomas' unhinged younger brother, Bloody Anne, his trusted second-in-command, and Ailsa, barmaid and fancy lady, there are so many others that add a rich depth to the story - Fat Luka, Cutter, and Billy the Boy being amongst some of my favorites. I feel the removal of even one of these characters would be noticed, and if I'm being honest, I'm a bit afraid for their futures. The enigmatic baddie keeps Tomas and the gang on their toes, and I'm excited to see what happens when they finally clash.

The majority of this book takes place in the city of Ellinberg, a moderately industrious city now decimated by plague and poverty. Each of its districts is aptly named for its redeeming qualities and controlled by a certain group of people. The Stink, seat of Tomas and his Pious Men, named for its lovely smell. The Wheels, home to Ma Aditi and The Gutcutters, a rival crime gang, and named for its dominating water wheels. Trader's Row, pretty self-explanatory and somewhat of a common neutral ground. We find ourselves exploring the majority of the city in the dark of night as Tomas plots and executes his many plans. Sometimes I feel as though stories set in one city can get a bit cramped and confined, but I didn't feel that way at all with our misadventures through Ellinberg.

I can talk about this book all day, but I'll leave the rest for you to discover yourself. There are secrets and treachery around every corner, and the only way to truly experience it all is to have Tomas tell you himself. Priest of Bones is a gritty read that tackles some pretty dark themes, never pulling any punches, and skillfully uses them to explain and accent the story at hand. It's refreshing to see these heinous aspects being exposed for a purpose and not just because. I went into this book a bit blindly, as I've yet to read anything by Peter McLean, but my expectations have greatly exceeded to say the least, and I don't think I can truly convey how excited I am to jump back in with Priest of Lies. If you're looking for something dark with some splashes of sarcastic humor and some pretty intense action, this is what you're looking for. I highly recommend.

We were the worst kind of people. For the best reasons. We understood that, even if no one else did.

After a robbery gone horribly wrong, Cord, a cursed thief, broadens his horizons and plans to execute the heist of a lifetime. With fellow thief and knife connoisseur Nenn in tow, the two build their ragtag crew to target the heart of the kingdom - Midian, the seat of tyrant King Mane Anaxos. As treachery, horrifying creatures of nightmare, and opposition bar their path at every turn, the gang must depend on skill - intellectual, martial, and magical - to deliver them an endless summer and keep them free from the clutches of evil despotism.

I've had the pleasure of beta reading this book and have witnessed something great only evolve and grow in scope and grandeur, becoming even more amazing, with each iteration. On its surface, this story is a wild and insane ride, peppered with plenty of "wtf?" moments, violent, wince-inducing action, and crude humor, but beneath all the layers, this is a tale of fighting for what you believe in, of how inaction is just as detrimental and damning as the actual crime, and how people need not share blood in order to be family. While dark and serious themes are tackled within, the pages are literally oozing with an unapologetic, sarcastic, and refreshing humor I've rarely encountered in books I've read over the years. And if I'm being completely honest, I don't think I've ever laughed so hard reading a story in my life…ever. River of Thieves is highly imaginative, wildly hilarious, and so very weird - in the best way possible.

It's impossible to begin discussing River of Thieves without giving Cord & Co. the attention they deserve, as Cord, Nenn, Rek, and Lux complete one of the most dynamic and charming "ragtag group of rogues" I've ever had the pleasure of meeting. Collectively, they're a group of charismatic, intelligent (debatable), debaucherous, sweary, and stabby thieves with tons of heart, willing to do whatever needs to be done in order to instill and protect the free will they believe all are entitled to. However, they have no regard for collateral damage, and more often than not, disaster and death of immeasurable proportion follow in their wake. While each contributes to the group in their own distinct way, they have more in common than they would like to believe, leading to some pretty impressive and witty banter, bickering, and artistic insults - as with any family, of course. As for secondary characters, I…I just can't…you’ll have to pick up the book to meet them yourself (Tug's my favorite, by the way).

Ever since I cracked open Snyder's Child of Nod, I've been a fan of his flowing and poetic prose, and he never ceases to impress. The use of metaphors and skillfully executed comparative language vividly paints this story in a such a way I didn't think possible, being both impactful and exceedingly amusing. The narrative itself is told through the eyes of Nenn, giving it a strong voice, projecting a firsthand account of the action, and perfectly immersing you in the many misadventures they face along their journeys. She's a sassy and sarcastic badass, and the tone of the tale reflects this. In addition to the main storyline, crafted myths are injected to add depth and history in interesting and entertaining ways - the tale of the goblin king is quite possibly the most beautifully written little yarn I’ve ever read.

He did not weep though the ground doubled and trebled before him and the carmine drops on his blade blurred to the point of blossoming into petals.

The story itself is broken up into three parts, each their own little adventure, but tied together throughout. Whether we're celebrating St. Cruciatus Day in the flooded streets of Midian, hiding away in a little hamlet under the boot of religious oppression, ascending the dominating onyx tower in the bustling center of Orlecht, or just sailing our way downriver, there's no shortage of interesting settings, strange enemies, or trouble to encounter. Although part one is the largest of the three and mainly focuses on events in one city, parts two and three are definitely a build-up for a grander story to (hopefully!) be addressed in future Cord & Co. books.

River of Thieves is one of the most entertaining reads I've read this year, and I cannot express enough how much I've fallen in love with these amazing characters. To me, this is a bit of a deranged retelling of Robin Hood - punish the rich…and also everyone else - done in such an exceptional way, using ridiculous(ly funny) pop culture references, pitch black humor, and unwavering emotion. I had so much fun reading this and am really looking forward to spending more time with the gang in the future. This book has a little bit of something for everyone, so you should definitely pick it up and give it a try. I highly recommend.

"It isn't all that much different from what goes on in every soul," he continued. "Good struggles with evil eternally in each of us, doesn't it?"

A tale of meddling gods, determined sorcerer kings, and honorable thieves. Amra and Holgren embark on a new journey to find Thagoth, a city of myth, seeking a way to reclaim Holgren's soul, only to be embroiled in a conflict that has been brewing for millennia. With divine intervention and the fate of humanity swaying in the balance, the two must scheme to defeat the dreaded Shadow King, or suffer an eternity in death and servitude.

Kerf's crooked crutch, I can't get enough of Amra and Holgren! The Thief Who Spat In Luck's Good Eye is Michael McClung's ambitious sophomore installment in his Amra Thetys series, and what an adventure it is. Governed by non-stop action, terrifying monsters that lurk in the shadows, and two thieves that can't seem to elude losing consciousness, it is one hell of a ride through life and death. While it's heavily steeped in the fantastical, deep in its bones it's a story of the battle between good and evil, of conquering fear instead of allowing it to conquer you, and of the strength and determination that lend courage when facing adversity. The setup is quick and the adventure takes off at a breakneck pace, remaining that way throughout, making for a quick and entertaining read. With each book I read, I fall more in love with this world the author has created.

The scope of this story is much more grand than book one as it takes us on a journey through faraway places, the death lands, and a deserted and desiccated city which holds the secret of immortality. For such a relatively short book, we're transported to a variety of haunting and beautifully-crafted environments, rich in history and filled with all types of treasures and enemies. We traverse a labyrinthine pyramid, which is prison to a shell of a man, explore the broken remains of the dead city of Thagoth, and visit the mysterious Shadowfall, home to the Shadow King. Each place so distinctly different, yet all tie together to weave a tale so intricately designed and wonderfully executed.

And now for the best part - Amra and Holgren are quite honestly some of my favorite characters ever, and ones that perfectly break their stereotypical yokes. Amra, a thief not afraid to take a life, but with strong morals and a heart of gold, and Holgren, a mage who cares not for the art of magic, seeking to live free of the thing he seems to despise. One brash, the other reserved. One who thrives in shadow, the other the source of the brightest light. Both willing to sacrifice everything for the other and both steadfast in their desire to pave their way to a better life. The two tastefully balance each other, making for a fun dynamic that keeps you coming back for more. In addition to these two, this story introduces Tha-Agoth and Athagos, the Twin Gods with an awe-inspiring and tragic history, as well as Kerf and Isin, father and mother of the gods, who seem to have chosen our two thieves to be the next heroes of the age. Also, the tale and fate of the Sorcerer King serves as the perfect backdrop for this amazing adventure.

"I never asked to be a hero."
Which is why you are suited for it.

As I expected, I had a blast with this book and am really looking forward to diving into the duo's next blunderous misadventure in The Thief Who Knocked on Sorrow's Gate. I'm always in need of some snark and sharp wit delivered with deadpan execution - I mean, is there any other way to respond to a breathtaking display of ancient magic than by replying with “can I have my knife back now?” I think not. If you haven't picked up this series yes, I really suggest you give it a try. I highly recommend.

Full review over at Fantasy Book Critic

The light is darkest just before the dawn.

In a world marred and preyed upon by demons, Theailys An has one goal, to reforge The Keepers' Wrath in order to end the demons' dominion over those struggling for survival. With divine intervention at every turn, an everlasting conflict between the wielders of illum and mirkúr, and a history that seems to repeat itself, Thaeilys must secure what's needed to bring peace to a land that has been plagued by a war of shadows for millennia. But are his efforts propelling him towards a predetermined conclusion, or will he take heed to the prophecies bestowed upon him as he dreams?

Vultures is a tale of balance and the war between light and shadow, law and chaos, good and evil. These opposing forces the two sides of one coin, and the balance the minuscule edge on which everything teeters. A careful exploration into the human psyche through the concept of innate fractured personalities wanting and in need of differing final results, all battling for sovereignty. It is a tale of righting wrongs and altering the effects of histories past, and the painful sacrifices needed in order to do so. It is, hands down, one of the most ambitious and sophisticated stories I have ever read. After reading the preview chapter offered by the author, I went into this with high expectations, and I cannot express how elated I am that the remainder of the book completely exceeded everything I had hoped for. If this outstanding debut is anything to judge by, Luke Tarzian is one author everyone needs to keep an eye on.

The format of this book is quite unique in which we're transported to various interesting locations through a series of timelines, allowing us to witness crucial points in history while remaining in the present. As some books are immediately heavy on worldbuilding, Vultures creates its world, rich in culture and diversity, right before your eyes. Yes, ancient events are implied through their results, such as the mention of a dead city of rot, but we also get to see firsthand how this city has come to be a desiccated shell of shadow and ash. The use of dreams and dream-like states as vehicles for worldbuilding is brilliant, constructing the masterpiece around you, rather than dropping you in blindfolded or overwhelming you with copious amounts of details. At times it may seem the purpose of these mechanisms are unclear, but as the story continues, all threads converge to build a magnificent tapestry with perfect clarity.

The bold may wisely cage a wolf that wields the power to raise an army, Behtréal thought, but it is the arrogant, the ignorant who reach between the bars to slay the wolf's cubs.

Tarzian has created a cast of intricately complex characters, each possessing of different abilities, hailing from disparate regions around the world, and each with their own strengths and downfalls. Some are controlled by avatars of wrathful gods, others are phreznic, or consumed by multiple presences that attempt to take control of the physical body, others yet are are simply haunted by the past. While the book focuses on three main characters, namely Theailys, Serece, and Behtréal, we're also introduced to different aspects or personalties of these characters, allowing us to observe critical events as they occur from every angle. There are a variety of secondary characters that perfectly flesh out the story and add a bit of levity, but as diverse as they all are, they all have one thing in common: pain - pain from loss, pain from war, pain from past decisions made, pain of loneliness - bringing them together to rise up for a common cause.

There are so many facets of this book I want to shout praise for and I only wish I could discuss them in more detail, but this story contains one jaw-dropping revelation after another. So, out of fear of spoiling, I'll just say Vultures is beautifully written, amazingly plotted (this is a severe understatement), and so emotionally raw. Tarzian's prose is gorgeous and flowing and reminiscent of an epic saga; his words a meticulously honed knife searing into your heart, preventing you from putting the book down, lest you fear leaving the characters you've become acquainted with alone in the darkness. His world is strange and awe-inspiring, one that he allows you to catch glimpses of, leaving you wanting more. And finally, peeling away the layers to learn more about the grand scheme is one highly rewarding experience.

The Demon Prime is a force of nature, a wind that begins as a whisper and evolves into a storm of madness that you cannot comprehend.

I feel that anything I say will not give this story the justice it deserves, as it's one you need to personally experience. It's earnest, tackling some pretty personal and serious themes, such as loss and depression, never skirting around the severity of their terrible effects. However, we're always reminded that there is the light of dawn on the horizon. I've mentioned this in the past, and I'll continue to express how excited I always am to dive into the works of a new author, and this is definitely no exception. Vultures is simply one of the most stunning debuts I've ever read and a beautiful beginning to The Shadow Twins Trilogy. I highly recommend you give this one a try.

Note: A HUGE thanks to the author who provided me with an advanced copy of this book.

Never alone.

All things must end, and the saga of Ryhalt Galharrow comes to a close with one magnificently striking and emotional conclusion. All the events of McDonald's Raven's Mark series have brought us to this moment, as the threat of the Deep Kings hovers like a black cloud about to release a cascade of poison rain upon the Misery and beyond. Galharrow stands alone against the storm, persevering in the face of failure and forging ahead when the world is set on relentlessly beating him down. Crowfall is a story underlining the willingness to do whatever must be done, including the sacrifice of every last bit of yourself, for those you love, of finding purpose, even when surrounded by the bleak oppression of guilt, and most importantly, choosing your own side. What begins as a much-appreciated "Previously on Raven's Mark...", quickly becomes a harrowing adventure of life and death as we journey towards the final stand, but the Deep Kings don't realize we bring along with us the pain and wrath of the Son of the Misery. This story is dominated by hunger and betrayal, yet ultimately retribution and redemption reign supreme.

In the six years following the events of Ravencry, time and circumstance have taken a great toll on the characters we've become acquainted with, most of whom are but a faint echo of the person they once were. After years of subjecting himself to the lands under the fractured sky, Galharrow is beginning to resemble many of the things he has sworn to protect the Range against. I've been vocal about my love of Galharrow since I first dug into Blackwing, and all I can say is that my admiration for him has only grown, regardless of how monstrous he has become. His strength has him barreling towards a seemingly hopeless end, but his iron will to fix his mistakes continues to propel him forward. Valiya and Amaira have both sacrificed much in the name of duty. Tnota is torn between love and loyalty. Dantry continues to sow havoc across the states. Maldon remains comfortable in his role of prickly genius. The Nameless are still gridlocked in their battle with the Deep Kings, who now march under a unified banner. And finally, a mysterious player in this game of fate refuses to admit defeat. We see a lot of familiar faces, some new, and ghosts of the past insist on fighting to fix this broken and threatened world.

McDonald masterfully crafts some of the most intriguing and intelligent landscapes that dig their claws in, unwilling to let go. Crowfall allows us to spend some more time upon the ever-changing sands of the Misery, and we are able to witness its strangeness in a way we couldn't before. It has always been known that it's not just a physical place, but also a thing of sentience, which is explored in great detail in this book. The howling sky, blood-thirsty grasses, and shifting dunes, all evidence of Crowfoot's attack on the Deep Kings; the land is just as haunted and pained as it was when he released the Heart of the Void almost a century prior. We march to Adrogorsk, the melted remains of a once-great city, where Ryhalt Galharrow was born under the battered and broken banner of a silver fist lost in a crimson sea. What better place to fight for the future of mankind than where it all began? While I knew we'd be spending quite a bit of time in these poisoned lands, I was not expecting to venture into the Nameless' place of power, a world of shattered ice and solitude - a strangeness that seems all too familiar - where the secrets to victory lie buried deep within.

Like the rest of the series, Crowfall is a first person narrative told through the eyes of Galharrow, and it's blatantly clear how much he has evolved from the beginning of book one to now. There's a certain poise and maturity radiating from him that we have yet to see, at times oozing with truly tragic undertones - a broken man feeling right at home in a broken world. The prose is beautiful, the sentiment is hard-hitting, the ultimate goal hidden from readers until the explosive final moments. All of the pieces we've been collecting over the the series' 1,000+ pages beautifully come together to reach a remarkable climax where the fate of all hangs in the balance.

Crowfall was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, and I couldn't ask for a more fitting conclusion to this series, which I absolutely adore. Everything is as it should be. I'll admit, I'm a little sad I have to say goodbye to Galharrow and crew, and even though all the threads have been perfectly tied up, I can only hope this isn't my last time visiting the Misery. If you haven't yet started the Raven's Mark series, you're only doing yourself a disservice and should rectify this right away. If you're already a fan of the series, you're in for a treat. I highly recommend.

Full review over at Fantasy Book Critic

Zarachius Skie was dead. Time to forge another identity from the flames.

Arcanist Zarachius Skie has one goal: to free his master from the confines of a train headed towards the empire's most notorious prison. However, what starts as a rescue mission quickly turns into the unraveling of a plot that threatens the very fabric of society, leaving him vulnerable to powerful adversaries who desire nothing more than to know what he knows. What better way to take your secrets to the grave than to fake your own death? The only problem with secrets - they're bound to catch up with you sooner or later.

The Steel Discord is quite a unique and absorbing story of political machinations, betrayal, and fighting against the tide of fate. With a strong focus on the very human belief of knowing all the answers, only for that belief to be inevitably shattered by the realization that there is always more to learn, it's a testament to the old adage 'nothing is as it seems'. Filled to the brim with planning, scheming, and acting, all in the name of the greater good, it remains unclear who or what is truly acting on behalf of those in Mordant and its surrounding nations. While it's definitely an action-packed heist story, at its heart, it's a tale of kith and kin, the sacrifices made for the ones you hold dearest in your heart, and finding that beacon of hope when adrift in a lonely and tempestuous sea.

I knew as soon as I cracked open this book I was going to fall in love with the characters Howse has crafted and given voice to. Always a fan of the odd couple trope, I was thrilled to see the author perfectly embody this with Zarachius Skie and Kyran D'Allaire, the 'lanky Arcanist and the large brawler', through tons of love and brotherly banter. Between Zarachius' constant curiosity of the unknown, and need to be involved and/or be the hero, and Kyran's 'I don't give a damn, but I'll bash some skulls' disposition, these two beautifully balance each other, creating an amazing dynamic that oftentimes leads them into dangerous, yet amusing situations. In addition to the boys, their mentor/guardian Mordekai Gethsemane, master occultist, is as complex as they come. I'll admit I had a love-hate relationship with him throughout the entire story, and couldn't for the life of me figure out his endgame until it was too late. And last but certainly not least, Nicola Maronovich, the mysteriously exotic rogue, with a shadowed history and clear intentions drew me in right from the start.

Did those scars erase you? Or did they change you, make you better? Perhaps the symbol isn't one of separation from who you are, but one that ties you to a greater lineage?

We're dropped into a French-inspired nation during an era resembling our own Industrial Revolution, where there's no shortage of technological advancements, but always with a fantastical twist. Steel trains surge across the land, while zeppelins dominate the sky. Industrious cities belch acrid smoke into the air, and forests wane as man and the like stretch their fingers farther into the unknown. Humans are not the only intelligent, sentient beings within society; we witness familiar faces pulled from mythology, as well as others that are specific to this world, most of which have been specifically bred for battle. The empire, led by a loathed and undesirable ruler, survives solely on the the feats of Arcanum, and corruption is more widespread than anyone would like to believe, all of which have led to a seemingly never-ending state of war. We spend time in floating cities, sprinting through dark forests, and barreling down train tracks at breakneck speeds. But it's important to always keep in mind: there's always more than meets the eye.

Of all the things I found most compelling in this book, its magic system is definitely towards the top of the list, simply because it's not only the literal backbone for this entire story, but also one of the most interesting and intricately designed systems I've recently encountered. Through the use of runes and incantations which open portals to the aether, an alternate 'universe', Arcanists summon caitiffs, or spirits, which are then bound to complete a variety of tasks, most of which are rudimentary to the upkeep of modern society. For instance, undines (water spirits) and ignans (fire spirits) are summoned and forced to interact to create steam to power the engines of the different types of transportation. This whole process plays a crucial role as the story continues, and takes some interesting twists and turns, which I hope are examined further in future installments of this series.

This was my introduction to the writings of Ryan Howse, and it certainly won't be the last time I dive into his work. With straightforward prose, an excellent balance of building and action, and some truly nail-biting moments, I blew through this one pretty quickly and thoroughly enjoyed it. We're left with the fates of several of the characters remaining unknown, so I'm hoping this isn't the last we see of Zarachius and Kyran. If you're looking for a little bit of adventure, with some snarky, yet warmhearted characters, and an interesting world filled with surprises, The Steel Discord ticks all these checkboxes. I'm looking forward to more within the A Concerto For The End of Days series.

Note: A huge thank you to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Full review at Fantasy Book Critic

Kingshold is an incredible political fantasy debut that could be the initial stepping stone for a truly remarkable series. This book has been on my radar for quite some time and I’m really glad I’ve finally gotten to dive into this fascinating world the author has so meticulously created.

The city of Kingshold is in upheaval after the unexpected assassination of its king and queen and dissolution of its monarchy. For the first time in history, the decision of who rules will be in the hands of its citizens - or at least those that can afford a voice. In a campaign to determine who will assume the mantle of Lord Protector, prominent figures emerge as favorites. However, after witnessing the social injustices of the current lay of the land, a group of unlikely compatriots are steadfast in their resolve to bring change that will benefit all in the city and not just those in the Upper Circle.

There are so many things to praise in this story, the characters and setting topping the list. We spend most of our time in the sprawling city of Kingshold, so finely constructed and detailed by Woolliscroft, that it becomes comfortably familiar. The hierarchical social structure directly affecting the layout of the different districts, each inhabited by realistic people making the environment tangible. Whether running across rooftops in the slums or meditating in a palace chamber, you feel as though you’ve truly been transported into this world.

We’re introduced to a wonderful cast of beautifully developed, colorful characters, all of different cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. The story has a large group of point of view characters, but the author seamlessly weaves them together to keep the story flow fluid and easy to follow. Lately I’ve been on a binge of darker fantasy and I can’t tell you how refreshing it was to spend time with a group of likable protagonists that aren’t apparently masking malice with charm.

Another thing I adored about this story was its organic and almost lighthearted humor. As we’re dealing with a story of political intrigue peppered with assassinations and suppression of the common people, there’s always a chance that adding splashes of humor can feel forced or out of place - this is definitely not the case with Kingshold. Woolliscroft manages to expose very serious concepts in a natural way without dipping into the darker aspects that are currently flooding the fantasy genre.

Thanks to SPFBO and a larger focus on self-published writers, I’ve had the honor of reading some impressive works by authors that I may not have heard of otherwise. This story is no exception. There are a few loose ends that need tying and I’m really looking forward to continuing my journey in the Jeweled Continent in future installments of The Wildfire Cycle. I highly recommend.

Today was to be a day for them to stand in the wind and take the storm's fury.

Several months after the election, the victors are beginning to settle into their roles in the realm's new regime, however, unrest still remains in the city of Kingshold, while promises made have yet to be delivered upon. Across the Sapphire Sea, the real threat is taking root in Ioth, as Pyrfew soldiers flood the streets and waterways, their intentions unknown. In an attempt to gather information, as well as broker peace, the Lord Protector sends a trusted team to deliberate and compromise with the political and spiritual leaders of the City of Lights, hoping to prevent this potential danger from spreading. Secrets unravel, battles are fought, and unlikely heroes emerge, but is it enough to thwart the designs of an ancient Emperor?

Ioth, City of Lights is the second full-length installment in Woolliscroft's The Wildfire Cycle series, and it takes everything we've come to know and love from Kingshold and expands upon it in ways I didn't think possible. While book one mainly focuses on events that affect one city, this book stretches its fingers across the Sapphire Sea, into neighboring Redpool and Ioth, with flashes of insight into the Pyrfew societal structure, as well. Presented with nail-biting action and utterly heartbreaking loss, we witness the true might of the enemy at last. Much like its predecessor, Ioth tackles the plagues of unbalanced power and corruption, but on a much broader scale, affecting larger societies, and in more profound ways. It focuses on the issues faced when not allowing all tiers of the populace a voice, and how the arrogance and greed of those at the top can only lead to one possible outcome: devastation and ruin. Another recurring theme throughout is the refusal to adhere to blind, and oftentimes misplaced, faith. Rather than following the flock, sometimes it is best to step back and question the destination, as it's possible the thing you're so intent on following may be straying far from its true intended path. And finally, it builds upon the bonds of brotherhood and camaraderie, and the difficult choices made in the name of the greater good.

The story is broken up into three parts, each generally taking place in a different part of The Jeweled Continent. While part one, set in Redpool, acts as a precursor of what's to come, and part two, set in Kingshold, allows us to further investigate the courtly intrigue post election, part three transports us to the City of Lights, a Venetian-inspired metropolitan of winding streets, canals laden with vessels, and whitewashed buildings. As with Kingshold, Ioth is so finely crafted, down to the most minute detail. Each district named for the things they are known for producing or putting on display, such as the Brass Isle or the Isle of Flowers. The Sanctum of Arloth; five shards reaching towards the heavens, one tipped in fiery gold - the Finger of Arloth. The ramshackle and dangerously soaring towers and promenades of The Ladders, home to the misfortuned poor. The striking columns and seemingly impossible ceilings of the Palazzo Confluens, seat of the ruling Assembly. Villas and storefronts and market stalls at every turn. The more we wander around the city, the more grand it becomes, and although led by several corrupt officials, I wish I could've kept exploring all the nooks and crannies to find what else Ioth has to offer.

"Why don't you go and find a book and a quiet place to read?"

Ioth, City of Lights is also a story that highlights the metamorphoses of several of the key characters we've been previously acquainted with. A bard becoming ruler, once only caring for himself, and now fighting for the safety of all his constituents. A maid promoted to Ambassador, unsure in her abilities, but more capable than anyone could've ever imagined. The adopted daughter of the founder of Edland, now one of the nation's most formidable mages with the weight of the world on her shoulders. Mercenaries and assassins hired for legitimate stately purposes. In addition, many new characters that we've met in Tales of Kingshold make their first appearances in the precarious game being played by the world's most influential super powers. Character dynamics play a crucial role in the development of all, and for fear of spoiling, I'll let you discover this on your own. We finally get a glimpse of the true threat as Ioth streets are surging with the green and gold of Pyrfew soldiers, and the appearance of the Bird Man, gigantic eagle in tow, and his jester-like accomplices. We get but a taste, but are definitely left with a lasting impression.

It's impossible to discuss this book without mentioning the insanely intense and enthralling action encountered throughout. Fire-breathing ships, arcane and chemically induced magics, invisible towers guarded by mysterious, murderous goop, it has it all. Skirmishes are described in such vivid detail, you feel as though you're right alongside Motega, Trypp, and Florian, dodging bolts and attempting to keep your footing on blood-slicked ground, or fighting back-to-back with Alana as assassins appear over balconies railings. Our heroes seem incapable of catching a break, and they're met with conflict around each and every corner, whether head-on by city guardsmen, or sinister troubles from within the shadows. And during each, you're on the edge of your seat, hoping to see your beloved favorites emerge unscathed.

Ioth, City of Lights is a wildly emotional and compelling ride, and Woolliscroft's best yet. The foreshadowing throughout the book hints at something monumental, but let me tell you, it's so much more than I expected, leaving me utterly slack-jawed at the final page. As we travel across The Jeweled Continent, my commitment to and adoration of The Wildfire Cycle continues to grow exponentially, and I cannot wait to see what happens next. I must point out that if you haven't read Tales of Kingshold before giving this one a try, you're doing yourself an extreme disservice, so get on that! For those of you that have yet to begin this incredible series, now is the perfect time to dive right in, and for those who are patiently awaiting Ioth, prepare yourselves for one thrilling adventure! I highly recommend.