Review by Kirkus Book Review
In this sequel to A Ruinous Fate (2023), members of the ensemble cast fight for their goals despite setbacks and danger. Trapped in the Neverending Forest, Calla, Gideon, Caspian, and Hannah are struggling after the death of Onyx Prince Ezra, Gideon's younger brother, and the kidnapping of the siren Delphine. Even as they attempt to escape the forest, bring Ezra back to life, and rescue Delphine, the war looms ever closer. Meanwhile, Delphine, who was horrifically tortured by Reniel (the sadistic former leader of her Shoal) as punishment for leaving him, plots her escape by feigning submission and remorse. Lastly, the Valkyrie Amina, having stolen Ezra's heart, is finally free of the forest, and she flies home to exact her revenge against the Valkyrie queen, only to discover that society and her friends have changed. Despite intriguing mini-quests and plot developments, the pacing drags, and the rotating points of view lessen the tension, although the inclusion of Gideon's and Delphine's viewpoints does add welcome depth to the relationships. Delphine's flashbacks and self-analysis, in particular, are empathetic, even though the torture scenes become repetitive. The depictions of corrupting power and societal inequities and control are intriguing but limited by centering on the seemingly one-dimensional antagonists. The strong, well-depicted focus on friendship and love is uplifting and provides a thematic thread despite the diluting rotating narration. The cast contains fantasy diversity. Unlikely to win new fans, but returning readers will find elements to appreciate. (map, character glossary) (Fantasy. 13-18) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
