Review by Booklist Review
Edwards continues the Tarot Sequence series (after The Hanged Man, 2019), kicking off a whirlwind adventure when Rune Saint John is tasked with investigating a mysterious, magical barrier around New Atlantis' famous rejuvenation center. As he and his companion, Brand, seek the one survivor--and presumed culprit--of the massacre, the investigation leaks into their private life and reveals details of the Sun Throne's fall under Rune's father. Rune desperately juggles claiming his father's throne, caring for his wards, and saving New Atlantis from an enemy that can affect time itself. When Rune and his lover, Addam, are dragged into a time loop, Rune is forced to confront dark secrets from his past as the extent of the plot against his family reveals itself. Faced with multiple attacks, his chosen family, which includes a prehistoric rhinoceros, must pull together to officially revive his throne. Edwards expertly blends magic, technology, a pandemic isolating New Atlantis from our world, and a keen sense of humor as he wraps up the first trilogy of this proposed nine-book series.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Library Journal Review
Rune Saint John has finally assumed the Sun Throne and now must deal with the political machinations that run throughout the rest of the ruling Arcanum and New Atlantis. Rune and his bodyguard Brand struggle with the past as much with the present as they search for allies among those who watched Rune be tortured while his father's court fell. They are also investigating a powerful barrier created around the rejuvenation center--one that hides its own bloody, painful aftermath. As Rune and Brand uncover a formidable enemy tied to New Atlantis's history, they find time is against them to protect their growing found family, including Rune's lover Addam. Everyone will have to face their past transgressions, long buried secrets, and the flow of time itself, as Rune continues to make choices that will forever change his future. High stakes and humorous dialogue continue to highlight the slow reveal of the long-game plotlines. The ending of this first trilogy (in a planned nine-book series) creates a spectacular story arc, leaving readers with as many questions as answers. VERDICT Edward's third "Tarot Sequence" novel (after The Hanged Man) builds on an intriguing alternate Earth filled with magic and political intrigue. This urban fantasy series is immersive and entertaining.--Kristi Chadwick
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