Incredible follow up to City of Stairs
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Brilliant novel, second in the series and just as good as City of Stairs where we meet the characters and this fantastic world. Hard to believe someone could endure as much as the General in this novel, but the world is not finished with our hero yet. I can't wait to read the 3rd and final novel. Robert Bennett is an amazing author with a brilliant mind for dialog and character development. I would love to see him receive the HUGO award.
4506980
This sequel to Death's Hand did not disappoint.  Reine's writing style continues to grip me and not let go until the last page is read.  Like the first book, it's hard to give any sort of substantive summary without giving things away. The gradual unfolding of the story is fantastic - really, the intrigue is a huge part of what kept me reading.

The whole atmosphere of the book is just so intense.  The flashbacks are effective in building up to the climax, and for me, it worked well with the pacing of the story.

Things I loved:  Elise's eerie relationship with the angels.  The introduction of Thom (who/what IS he??) The relationship between James and Elise (strained now, but still intense).  And finally -finally!- we get a real glimpse of Him (the descriptions in that chapter were absolutely amazing).

Definitely do not read this without reading book 1.  It won't make any sense, and you'll lose a lot of character background.

In order:
<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/Death-s-Hand-The-Descent-Series/dp/B005WZKJN6/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">Death's Hand (The Descent Series)</a>&nbsp;(book 1)
<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/Death-s-Avatar-The-Descent-Series/dp/B006R9J2OS/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">Death's Avatar (The Descent Series)</a>&nbsp;(short story - reveals events that were alluded to in book 1. Actually, I'm not sure if you're supposed to read this before or after book 1.  Maybe before.  But I read it after and I kinda liked learning about this full story after the fact.)
Darkest Gate (book 2)
<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/Dark-Union-The-Descent-Series/dp/B008NXLRQW/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">Dark Union (The Descent Series)</a>&nbsp;(another short story)
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I have been waiting for this book to come out since The Twelve was first published. All I can say is, wow! The ending to this book will not disappoint and it was well worth the wait. The City of Mirrors starts off a few years after the remaining Twelve have been destroyed at the Homestead. We learn the fate of Amy and continue to follow the lives of Peter, Sara, Hollis, Michael and Alicia. All seems well (doesn't it always?) and communities are growing and people are living outside the protection of their walls and lights. But Zero is still out there. He's been hiding out in New York City. We learn more about Zero (a lot more) and what happened to him since the outbreak and about the life of Fanning before the outbreak. A final battle is brewing. Will humanity continue to survive and thrive or will Zero be their demise?

Like The Passage and The Twelve, The City of Mirrors is long but I was so enthralled with the story that I didn't notice. There is also a long list characters, many are familiar and many are new. I know many people were not happy with all the new characters in The Twelve but this time around they are easier to keep track of and it won't be as confusing. There are still a lot of surprises in store. I am not going to lie, some people might want to keep some tissue close by (there were a few sad moments but I managed to keep it together). Cronin does a fantastic job blending character and plot and has a way of tying everything together in each book. Even things that don't seem important, every little detail is taken care of. I like the way Cronin can use language to paint a picture that flows naturally. Justin Cronin has moved to the top of my list of favorite authors.

I received an advance copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
1978305
Radiohead King of Limbs continued and Down the Staircase continued.  So grateful to have while I await another RH album.
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Welcome to the world of Jane Yellowrock- Cherokee skinwalker/rogue vampire hunter extraordinaire. Filled with an in-depth timeline of the series to date, a character list, glossary, an interview with Beast, and new stories only found in the companion, this read immerses you in one of the best urban fantasy series on the market.

Jane Yellowrock World Companion is bar none one of the best companion guides I have ever read. Everything you expect to find in a companion is here but where it really shines in is the timeline (written by Carol Malcolm) and the new short stories and novella Hunter has included. The timeline reads like a CliffsNotes version of the series and hits all the important and major events that a reader needs to refresh (especially when you may not always have the time to reread a series prior to a new book release). I personally appreciate this because, frankly, I read a lot and sometimes I do need a refresher. This is really a superior rundown of the series.

As for the short stories, both from Brusiers point of view (these stories may have put this reviewer firmly in the Brusier camp), add wonderful depth to an already complex and compelling character, and it is always fun to see Jane from someone elses point of view.

The novella, Beneath a Bloody Moon, reads just like a full-length novel. All the action, all the mystery, all the Jane-ness we have come to expect in a slightly-condensed form. It adds to the overall story-line, especially with solidifying how Jane is coming to terms with the Younger Brothers being in her life and whets our appetites for the next release. The novella all by itself makes this a worthwhile purchase.

If you are a fan of Jane Yellowrock, this is a must-have. The new original material and the detailed timeline really make this companion stand out. All of the other facets of the companion serve as an excellent reference guide to an ever-expanding world, and I can hardly wait to see what Faith Hunter has in store for Jane (and us) next.

Originally reviewed at Bitten by Books by Kristin D.
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I am as much in love with Katerina's story as when I finished book one. Katya is still as independent and inquisitive as ever--and still far from safe. After discovering that Russia's greatest nemesis is still alive in the grey, Katya is confined to the old finishing school she thought she had finally left behind. With her necromancer powers blooming, Katiya has also become a threat to the stability of the empress's home, as the empress wants to keep George in the Light Court, and his love for Katya threatens to pull him to the Dark Court. Still, George and Katya are still very much in love and looking for a way to be together.

As I mentioned in my review of book one, Robin Bridges has created a fascinating world. In the Katerina books, Robin has given new life to familiar creatures of myth, among them vampires, werewolves, faeries, while casting a magical light on court life in Russia. She has also stirred up so much intrigue that, with all the power struggles going on, you don't know who you can trust, other than Katya. Even George is suspect, though he was so noble in the first book. All this has been interwoven so skillfully throughout the novel that it continues to move at a strong pace without getting bogged down in too much detail.

Even while introducing new plot lines, The Unfailing Light continues to develop the characters introduced in book one and set the stage for the third book in the Katerina trilogy, though not as much as in the first book. Danilo is an ever (disturbing) presence at the back of Katya's mind, new friendships are formed, and new enemies unmasked. I missed Dariya's presence in this book, as she doesn't have as much stage time as in the first book, but I did appreciate Princess Alix's role in this one. There are some moments when her loyalties become questionable, but I warmed up to her by the end of the book. I even feel some sympathy for Danilo's sisters (not so much for the prince himself).

My only wish is that the ghost plot line were more developed, as I was expecting more from it after reading the synopsis. I can't complain much though, as ghosts will appear in their own sweet time, and Katya is still in the process of understanding her abilities. As I mentioned earlier, this book has set the stage for the greater conflict to take place in the third book, and I absolutely cannot wait to read it!
2185877
As soon as I finished reading Gates of Thread and Stone, I instantly picked this book up. The first book ended on such a cliff hanger!

In this thrilling sequel, Kai is sent away to another city that claims it needs help protecting itself. The people of Ninurta find this as such a surprise because they didn't even know that there were other cities out there at all. They thought they were all alone. They see this as an opportunity to open up some new trade routes and help one another, so a group (led by Kai, of course) is sent to this new city to help out. Mason goes with them as well. The thing is, this other city may have had other ideas in mind besides just getting help.

I have to say that I enjoyed this sequel even more than the first book, which is saying a lot, because I loved the first book. Kai was even more badass compared to her former self in book one. She has definitely grown a lot which is pretty awesome. Avan is now an Infinite, which kind of sucks because he and Kai had such a great relationship that he can't exactly remember anymore now. He just doesn't seem like himself at all anymore, so I'm really hoping that in a future book he gets his memories back *crosses fingers*.

I have to say that Mason is probably my favorite character because he's just always there for Kai and he has such a crush on her, it's adorable. Mason helps Kai stay strong through some really tough times. I also really liked Reev as a character, who is Kai's brother. They have had such a strong relationship their whole lives though I have been a bit iffy of him at times, because Kai always seems to suspect him of something though he seems to always be innocent in the end.

I didn't think that what happened in this book was predictable at all, which I loved. I definitely can't wait for another book in this series, because I need to know what happens next! I highly suggest checking this series out as soon as you can!
3152165
Cassandra Clare will have hooked from the first page. City of Ashes is even better than City of Bones. I was glued to my Kindle for every word and transported to the world that Clare so vividly paints. I can't believe I didn't pick up sooner.
3497543
I could launch into an actual essay on how the original books in this series created my love of truly masterful world-building, and how I came of age with the original trilogy, and how much I just love the HELL out of them... but this review needs to be about this book, so I will refrain.

I loved seeing how so many of my favorite characters have grown and changed. Tad is a masterful world builder, and in returning to Osten Ard, you find a world changed but still very much beloved. Everything, again, feels very *real* in this book, with plots and intrigues, mysteries that dance just at the edge of understanding, and Simon still being very much Simon even though wearing the High Kings crown has seasoned him a bit.

The hardest thing about finishing any Tad Williams is waiting for the next one. And I very much need to read the next one!
236311
Really great follow up to the first book.  To be honest, I was wondering how long the author would be able to keep up the hilarious internal monologues and he doesn't disappoint.  Pacing is a bit slower in some parts vs book 1 but overall still hard to put down.  Don't want to give spoilers but there are a few moments where you question the incompetence of Rezkin's companions but I let it go and suspend my disbelief because the rest of the book is so good.

The real question readers need to ask after they finish this is, "WHEN DO WE GET BOOK 3??"  =)
1137504
Midnight Taxi Tango, is the second installment in the Bone Street Rumba series and it was even better than the first book! Two things Ive come to learn reading Olders work is that it will never disappoint and always expect the unexpected. Many of the Urban Fantasy novels Ive read are of the same variety and too similar to one another. However with the Bone Street Rumba series, Its a breath of fresh air and I love all the unexpected twist and turns. In HRB, Carlos and his team had to deal with a powerful sorcerer and creepy, bike riding ngks that permanently destroyed spirits. And in MTT, we had blattodeon men lurking at every corner, and once again, Carlos is brought in to investigate a random string of murders that took place in Von King Parkwhich turned out not to be so random after all.

This series is full of eclectic and diverse characters, so I was surprisingly happy to see that this time around, Older utilized multiple POVs. I say surprising because Im usually not a fan of them. Not only did this showcase others perspective/background but we also saw an in-depth look at Brooklyn from someone other than Carlos. Which I was glad for because Carlos was still devastated about Sasha leaving. And at the best of times he was still kind of melancholy and incoherent. In addition to Carloss POV, we had Kia, a teen that worked at Baba Eddies shop and a bad-ass lady name Reza.

Readers met Kia Briefly in HRB, a street savvy sixteen-year-old and manager of Baba Eddies Bot&aacute;nica. Kia is smart, headstrong and outspoken. Kia is very independent and I like that she does whatever she wants. Sometimes I forget shes a teenager. Kia has a lot of personality, and people will either take to her or find her completely unappealing. Im obviously in the former category. Kia is certainly not like the typical teenager most people read about. Also somewhat ironic, since she is as realistic as it gets. And Older did a great job of capturing teenage youth and angst. Reza is a new character that readers will meet in MTT. Shes like a lady version of Carlos, but probably a little more unforgiving. Shes a tough as nail, blunt, fearless and has the take-no-prisoner- attitude. Literally. Any one that messes with her and her crew is likely gonna eat a bullet. No joke. She is scary awesome. Besides loving the two new fierce ladies POVs, Kia BFF Karina was a freaking hoot. I absolutely loved all the scenes with Karina.

Midnight Taxi Tango was a great squeal, especially with the world and characters firmly introduced and grounded in the first novel. There was a lot more action this time around and the dialogue had me laughing constantly. If you haven't checked out the Bone Street Rumba series, then you need to run to the nearest bookstore/site and get it ASAP. This series doesnt get as much attention as it should, its truly a hidden gem when it comes to the Urban Fantasy genre. Older has become an auto-buy, shelf keeper author and I cant wait to see what you comes up with next.
869189
I always have trouble writing reviews for books I like to refer to as "follow ups", meaning sequels or novels containing reoccurring characters with a continuing plot that crosses over multiple stories. That's exactly what The Deep Dark Descending is, and while you CAN read this as a standalone, there is so much backstory you'll be missing that I can't in good faith let you go on without recommending reading all of Eskens' books in order. You might remember my glowing review for his previous novel The Heavens May Fall last year, and this latest was a fantastic continuation on the tense mystery surrounding the murder of Detective Max Rupert's wife Jenni. If you absolutely refuse to start with his first novel, then I recommend at a bare minimum beginning with THMF solely for the characterization and backstory surrounding the main events here.

While last years story was a traditional police procedural with a hefty dose of mystery, The Deep Dark Descending is much less mystery and much more action thriller. I would go as far as saying the mystery stops near the beginning of the book, as we find out the who early on, and from there the plot is paced quickly with breath taking action and building suspense. The real showstopper here is this final development in Max; we've now seen him grow from a responsible member of law enforcement to a man tortured by the death of his wife who is hellbent on seeking revenge, even at the cost of his own civility and insanity. I won't say more about the plot, but I am very intrigued to see where Eskens decides to take us next, as the ending of the book was pure perfection and wholly satisfying in my humble opinion.

If you enjoy connected novels that are ever changing in style, structure, and pacing, these crime fiction books are a must read. I cannot recommend all four of Allen Eskens' novels highly enough; they are short, easy reads that pack a powerful punch, and I have only witnessed him grow further as an author with each story that he writes. If you haven't had the pleasure of learning his backstory and how he became a writer, I would highly recommend seeking out his biography as it is one of the most interesting I've encountered. Eskens is consistently talented and I adore his work so much that I block out a week at the beginning of fall to ensure I have no distractions while reading his latest book. Excellent character building and a plot worthy of gasps and awe, please consider adding The Deep Dark Descending to your fall TBR.
95357
I started this series with the second book (The Whispering Room) and was blown away by both the story and author Dean Koontz writing style. When I received this book, The Crooked Staircase, I was a tad bit afraid that it would not live up to the predecessor. It is even better.

I think it can be read standalone but reading the whole series lets you grow alone with Jane and to meet individuals who might not make it to the next book.

Jane has discovered a secret society that is intent on ruling the world. They do so by hand-picking a very select few members and more, by enslaving or having others killed. The premise of the book, the nanotechnology, while still science fiction, is not so fair afield that one can imagine that one day this story line could read as true. Jane is determined to stop these people, even if the cost is her own life.

Once I had read the second book in the series, I purchased the Kindle version of the first book. I want to know how it all began. I am already looking forward to the next book as well.

I was provided a digital advance reader copy of this book by the publisher via Netgalley.
1673653
City of Ashes is the second book in the Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare. It continues the fantastic world building that Cassie started in City of Bones. You delve further into the Shadow World and the politics of the Clave, although it still takes place solely in New York City. Some people have difficulty immersing themselves in the City of Bones because the pacing isn't fast enough for them, but there are some good action sequences that might make this second book more appealing. I personally have not experienced that lack of engagement, but I appreciate the world building and that may cause me to approach the story from a different perspective.

As much as I loved the first book, you can see a marked improvement in Cassies writing even by this second book. There is a particular scene in which the setting is described so vividly that you can easily imagine the location building around you in your mind. Immersive world building is always very important to me in books, especially fantasy series, so I cannot recommend this series enough. Although it is the earliest of her writing, you cannot miss out on all of the details she provides about the world. You go on the journey with Clary as you both learn about Downworlders, the Clave, and demons.

City of Ashes further develops the relationships and connections between the characters. You can feel how much they care for one another and its really authentic. Although Ive read this series before it has been a while since I delved into the series that started it all. I am being reintroduced to favourite characters and realizing just how much theyve grown over the course of the numerous novels that Cassie has written. As I re-read interactions and laugh at witty lines, I fall in love with the characters all over again. I remember what it is that made me care for them in the first place, not just their strengths but their vulnerabilities.

Theres not much else I can say without discussing plot points or spoiling things from this or the first book, so I would just end it with  please, if you're hesitant, give this series a chance. I would highly recommend it and in my opinion, it definitely needs to be read prior to reading Cassies newest series, the Dark Artifices. As incredible as the world building is in that series, its adding to the lore that has been built and evolved over the course of ten novels. It won't be as impactful if you don't have the foundational knowledge before you read the Dark Artifices.
1931407
The Magician picks up immediately after the previous book of the series, The Alchemyst, left off. The plot thickens beautifully and the story flows so perfectly that its hard to remember the whole thing is a work of fiction.

This story brought us to Paris, France. Sadly, I haven't been there yet But I can easily imagine it through the immersive details given by the characters themselves. Speaking of characters, there were quite a few added to the story in this novel. Each of them is so perfectly developed that there is no room for doubt. They simply are.

The Magician was so full of action and an amazing level of storytelling. I cant wait to continue on this journey with Sophie, Josh, Nicholas Flamel, and everyone else in this wonderfully created series.

For this review and more, please visit my blog at vicariousbookworm.wordpress.com
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Unfortunately not the fast paced thrill ride of a read that THE KNIFE OF NEVER LETTING GO was. No, THE ASK AND THE ANSWER (Chaos Walking #2) is a much slower story that is all about mind tricks, as Viola and Todd struggle under the thumb of their old enemy Mayor Prentiss.

Now newly self appointed President Prentiss flexes his control over the pair of teens as well as the rest of New World's remaining population. Haven has been claimed and renamed New Prentiss Town and quickly becomes that of a police state of horrors under its new ruler and his army. All the men and women are once again separated including Todd and Viola. Despicable acts of evil and violence become part of daily life. With the threat of mutiny and war again rising on New World, Todd and Viola find themselves confused, beaten and trapped on different sides.

There is no question that Patrick Ness is an awesome writer with a completely original story to tell. The Chaos Walking Trilogy is one with a strong concept that is entirely unique and intriguing. And although I didn't love this second much slower installment as I did the firs; I'm still hooked by the idea of a world trying to function under the duress of "noise". The Chaos Walking series is definitely worth a look, especially under the skillful narration of the ever so talented Nick Podehl and this time's added narrator Angela Dawe, as the voice of Viola.
558431
I am so grateful to all of you who reviewed Truthwitch, because that spurred me to read it. And I loved it. And this, its sequel, I also loved.

As you might guess from the title, this book focuses primarily on Merik. We get a lot of story about him- which is nice, considering his motivations in the first book were pretty straightforward. He's a good character, although not my favorite, and he's definitely got a path to tread. He's also disfigured now, and the author doesn't pull punches with it...you just know it's going to become a hangup of his when he and Safi meet up again (which I'm hoping happens in book 3).

This book also included the ongoing adventures of Safi (now with Empress of Marstok for added spiciness), Iseult (who is becoming much more central to the building tensions throughout the book series), and Aeduan (who has become my favorite character of the series). Everyone is going in a different direction throughout this story, and there are a handful of new side characters to keep track of. But Dennard handles it all deftly, and I never once felt overwhelmed (and frustrated that, because it was an audiobook, I needed to flip back a few chapters for a reference). The plot moves forward, and everyone plays their part- separately. But by the end, you can see the notes becoming a symphony, and the pieces starting to snap together.

I don't want to give away any spoilers, but the character development in this one was prime. And the tension was constant, no matter which character had the perspective at the moment. I'm still totally engaged in the plight of the world Dennard has expertly fleshed out, and will absolutely continue reading the series.