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The Connection Series #2
The Mover of Mountains
He is the Mover of Mountains. He is the Destroyer of Worlds. He is the only reason she exists.
Maya is gone. Now, imprisoned in the bowels of Mason’s Palace, Alira must find the strength to survive. But as destiny sings louder with each passing day, Alira can’t understand why Mason wants to destroy the world he so lovingly created. What secrets is he hiding about his past, about her future?
As unexpected alliances are formed and enemies lurk around every corner, Alira wonders if she will ever find happiness. And, most importantly, what part of her humanity is she prepared to sacrifice in exchange for a future?
Maya is gone. Now, imprisoned in the bowels of Mason’s Palace, Alira must find the strength to survive. But as destiny sings louder with each passing day, Alira can’t understand why Mason wants to destroy the world he so lovingly created. What secrets is he hiding about his past, about her future?
As unexpected alliances are formed and enemies lurk around every corner, Alira wonders if she will ever find happiness. And, most importantly, what part of her humanity is she prepared to sacrifice in exchange for a future?
404 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 3, 2021
3 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
About the author
Esme Carmichael
9 books56 followersEsme Carmichael is a UK independent author and self-published her debut novel, The End of Everything, in January 2021. Most of her stories have vivid worlds, dark and dystopian themes, and characters you’ll love-to-hate, and hate-to-love.
Esme co-hosts the live-streamed Steam Queens podcast, is an ambassador for #TheWriterCommunity, works full time as an ocean scientist, and refuses to believe her TBR-pile is out of control.
Website: www.esmecarmichael.com
Esme co-hosts the live-streamed Steam Queens podcast, is an ambassador for #TheWriterCommunity, works full time as an ocean scientist, and refuses to believe her TBR-pile is out of control.
Website: www.esmecarmichael.com
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
December 24, 2021
At long last, I've gotten back into the second book of the Connection series: the first one was unlike any new adult novel I'd read before, but I know people have been raving about it for a while, and having read it, I understand why!
"Picking up where The End of Everything finished, Alira finds herself imprisoned in the palace of Mason, tyrannical overlord of the New World. His desires for her are unexpected, and as Alira finds herself torn between her desire to survive and temptations she has never known, how much of her soul is she willing to sacrifice to ensure her future?"
Esme Carmichael has written a piece of dystopian fiction worthy to stand alongside the likes of The Handmaid's Tale and The Hunger Games: Mason continues to be an enthralling and terrifying character, particularly in how Esme depicts Alira falling for his charm and deluding herself things are getting better (the depiction of Stockholm Syndrome is so chilling) only to be reminded of the reality of her situation and just how much of a monster Mason truly is (he's every bit as terrifying when he's being banal and charming as when he's being barbaric and cruel). Several familiar faces return and it was delightful to see some of the more vile individuals from TEofE get their comeuppance (bye bye Verity! I did not see that coming!)... The explosive ending has definitely got me hankering to read the next book in the series!
"Picking up where The End of Everything finished, Alira finds herself imprisoned in the palace of Mason, tyrannical overlord of the New World. His desires for her are unexpected, and as Alira finds herself torn between her desire to survive and temptations she has never known, how much of her soul is she willing to sacrifice to ensure her future?"
Esme Carmichael has written a piece of dystopian fiction worthy to stand alongside the likes of The Handmaid's Tale and The Hunger Games: Mason continues to be an enthralling and terrifying character, particularly in how Esme depicts Alira falling for his charm and deluding herself things are getting better (the depiction of Stockholm Syndrome is so chilling) only to be reminded of the reality of her situation and just how much of a monster Mason truly is (he's every bit as terrifying when he's being banal and charming as when he's being barbaric and cruel). Several familiar faces return and it was delightful to see some of the more vile individuals from TEofE get their comeuppance (bye bye Verity! I did not see that coming!)... The explosive ending has definitely got me hankering to read the next book in the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2021
I'd like to think of myself as an inherently good person. Carmichael had me questioning my morality at times. Mason is cruel (an understatement) yet, despite everything he'd done, I still found myself wanting his and Alira's union. I found myself siding with Alira when Anya was trying to warn her. What does that say about me? 😱
This book was maddening and compelling! It was always with reluctance that I had to put this book down at night, just so I could get some sleep before my baby woke up. I wasn't able to read it during the day simply because my kids require all my time and energy, otherwise I'm positive that I would've devoured this in one sitting. Nevertheless, it didn’t take me long to read it.
I found myself excited about bedtime so I could pick the book back up and carry on reading. I had to know what happened next! I didn’t want this story to end but couldn’t stop myself from racing towards an inevitable book hangover.
This story was a rollercoaster of emotions. The author (who I think is into sorcery of some kind) is a master at pulling you in so you're completely absorbed in the story, and just when you're lulled into a false sense of security, the unthinkable happens.
The descriptions are beautifully vivid. Bedtime for me was akin to going upstairs, but then climbing through my loft hatch and emerging into a completely new and enthralling world.
I've never encountered a villain such as this one. He is a very complex character who equally stirs a range of complex emotions within myself 😈
The ending of this book was perfect. It drew a line under this part of the story, whilst also leaving so many questions unanswered. Questions I *need* to know the answers to.
I cannot wait for the next instalment.
5 stars (diamonds) all the way!
💎💎💎💎💎
My only wish now is that these books get picked up by Netflix.
⚠️ Also, please be mindful of the Content Warnings that come with this book ⚠️
This book was maddening and compelling! It was always with reluctance that I had to put this book down at night, just so I could get some sleep before my baby woke up. I wasn't able to read it during the day simply because my kids require all my time and energy, otherwise I'm positive that I would've devoured this in one sitting. Nevertheless, it didn’t take me long to read it.
I found myself excited about bedtime so I could pick the book back up and carry on reading. I had to know what happened next! I didn’t want this story to end but couldn’t stop myself from racing towards an inevitable book hangover.
This story was a rollercoaster of emotions. The author (who I think is into sorcery of some kind) is a master at pulling you in so you're completely absorbed in the story, and just when you're lulled into a false sense of security, the unthinkable happens.
The descriptions are beautifully vivid. Bedtime for me was akin to going upstairs, but then climbing through my loft hatch and emerging into a completely new and enthralling world.
I've never encountered a villain such as this one. He is a very complex character who equally stirs a range of complex emotions within myself 😈
The ending of this book was perfect. It drew a line under this part of the story, whilst also leaving so many questions unanswered. Questions I *need* to know the answers to.
I cannot wait for the next instalment.
5 stars (diamonds) all the way!
💎💎💎💎💎
My only wish now is that these books get picked up by Netflix.
⚠️ Also, please be mindful of the Content Warnings that come with this book ⚠️
August 8, 2021
I picked this book up and then was not allowed to continue the rest of my life until I’d read every word.
This book taught me so much about what makes me love a character and their story. I feel like a better writer for having read it.
This book taught me so much about what makes me love a character and their story. I feel like a better writer for having read it.
March 17, 2022
I really enjoyed the first book, The End of Everything. Like, 5-star enjoyed. And then Carmichael goes and totally blows my mind with this sequel. Second books in series aren't supposed to be this good, and yet here we are.
Carmichael does such an exquisite job with the character arc here, I'm simply in awe. And even though I could see what was happening, even though I could sense the author's intentions, I still couldn't help but be sucked in completely.
And then that climax. Just... wow. Despite having an idea where we were headed, the end still managed to surprise me, blow my mind, make me marvel at the author's mastery at writing action scenes, and leave me wanting a lot more.
This book is going to be one of the best reads of the year for me. Easily.
Carmichael does such an exquisite job with the character arc here, I'm simply in awe. And even though I could see what was happening, even though I could sense the author's intentions, I still couldn't help but be sucked in completely.
And then that climax. Just... wow. Despite having an idea where we were headed, the end still managed to surprise me, blow my mind, make me marvel at the author's mastery at writing action scenes, and leave me wanting a lot more.
This book is going to be one of the best reads of the year for me. Easily.
February 3, 2021
Shockingly brutal, and unflinchingly honest, 'The Mover of Mountains' is an absolute must-read. After 'The End of Everything', I knew I would be in for a rollercoaster ride when it came to the second book in The Connection Series. 'The Mover of Mountains' delivered, and then some. Indeed, I would go so far as to describe myself as emotionally wrecked.
It's hard to know where to begin with this review. I could talk about the shocking brutality of the truly despicable villain that is Mason, the ultimate counterpoint to the supposedly-so-bad villains who turn out to simply be misunderstood. He is an incredibly complex and outstandingly-written character, and I have gone over and over in my head trying to figure him out, and each time I think I have the answer, he eludes me. Esme Carmichael provides a masterclass in true villainy in 'The Mover of Mountains'. I could talk about the beautiful shimmers of hope in the friends and companions Alira finds in the Palace, the greatest of which I cannot include here due to spoilers, but which makes me cry just thinking of it.
I could talk about how the portrayal of the relationship in this novel is about as close to perfection as you can get. It's the best example I can remember reading of a long-term abusive relationship, and at times it became too much for me. The second half of the story, in particular, as coping mechanisms such as rationalising, numbing, and minimising, struck such a chord with me. I am always on the look out for stories that include themes like those explored in 'The Mover of Mountains', because I believe they are sadly lacking. Here, they are so expertly handled and honestly written.
But I want to talk specifically about how the author manages emotion in this story. I cannot praise Esme Carmichael enough for this. Not only in the moments between Alira and Anya (find me when you've read Chapter 33 and we can weep over it together). But also Alira's love, despite the circumstances, and all the things she does to show her love, despite the awful way she is treated by Isobel, Verity, Mason, and so many other characters. Her quiet resilience and bravery was just so moving. I was also living for Alira's heart-of-darkness slide as the events of the story take their toll on her. The way the author sprinkles coping mechanisms and branches of hope throughout such a dark and brutal story - painting, reading, sewing, the Flowerbook Alira makes - serve as beautiful, fragile reminders of attempts at clinging to normalcy and the drive of a survivor to simply make it through another day.
In my opinion, 'The Mover of Mountains' is a masterpiece.
I was so grateful to receive and ARC copy of 'The Mover of Mountains' in return for an honest review.
It's hard to know where to begin with this review. I could talk about the shocking brutality of the truly despicable villain that is Mason, the ultimate counterpoint to the supposedly-so-bad villains who turn out to simply be misunderstood. He is an incredibly complex and outstandingly-written character, and I have gone over and over in my head trying to figure him out, and each time I think I have the answer, he eludes me. Esme Carmichael provides a masterclass in true villainy in 'The Mover of Mountains'. I could talk about the beautiful shimmers of hope in the friends and companions Alira finds in the Palace, the greatest of which I cannot include here due to spoilers, but which makes me cry just thinking of it.
I could talk about how the portrayal of the relationship in this novel is about as close to perfection as you can get. It's the best example I can remember reading of a long-term abusive relationship, and at times it became too much for me. The second half of the story, in particular, as coping mechanisms such as rationalising, numbing, and minimising, struck such a chord with me. I am always on the look out for stories that include themes like those explored in 'The Mover of Mountains', because I believe they are sadly lacking. Here, they are so expertly handled and honestly written.
But I want to talk specifically about how the author manages emotion in this story. I cannot praise Esme Carmichael enough for this. Not only in the moments between Alira and Anya (find me when you've read Chapter 33 and we can weep over it together). But also Alira's love, despite the circumstances, and all the things she does to show her love, despite the awful way she is treated by Isobel, Verity, Mason, and so many other characters. Her quiet resilience and bravery was just so moving. I was also living for Alira's heart-of-darkness slide as the events of the story take their toll on her. The way the author sprinkles coping mechanisms and branches of hope throughout such a dark and brutal story - painting, reading, sewing, the Flowerbook Alira makes - serve as beautiful, fragile reminders of attempts at clinging to normalcy and the drive of a survivor to simply make it through another day.
In my opinion, 'The Mover of Mountains' is a masterpiece.
I was so grateful to receive and ARC copy of 'The Mover of Mountains' in return for an honest review.
June 4, 2021
Awesome second book in this continuing series
The second book did not disappoint in any way.
Each chapter added more to the mystery and many questions became answered or raised more questions.
Looking forward to the continuing story of Alira and Mason.
The second book did not disappoint in any way.
Each chapter added more to the mystery and many questions became answered or raised more questions.
Looking forward to the continuing story of Alira and Mason.
June 21, 2021
Just as amazing as the first book & novella before it.The dark moments, the shocking brutal & honesty. This book takes you on a rollercoaster ride, playing with your emotions.
You should read this series.
You should read this series.
February 16, 2022
This book is everything.
No seriously, this book you guys, it was so so good and I needed a couple of days to recover after I finished it. It continues exactly where TEOE left us. Mason has finally discovered who Alira is and he’s less than amused that she was able to hide from him for the past nine months. He treats her absolutely terrible and my heart broke. I thought there was no redeeming his behaviour.
Except here we are...
How the author does it I have no idea but I simply couldn’t NOT love Mason. Especially when he sees he was wrong about his assumptions about Alira, their shared pain, and how their relationship blossoms into something sweet I found myself rooting for them❤️ I savoured each and every moment because I knew it couldn’t last. And it didn’t. And it broke my heart...again. And still...
To write such a character who is wrong in every sense, who does unredeemable things yet makes the reader root for them. That’s good writing.This book had me stuck on the edge of my seat until the last word and I was left with such a heartbreak that I just couldn’t seem to shake
I learned a valuable lesson from this book – aside the fact that I may have an unhealthy taste in book boyfriends lol – which is the effect it has on a reader to let your character go through the worst. We all know the theory. We all try to do horrible things to our characters. But Carmichael does it x1000 and then some. And it works. It works so well to have her go through the worst ordeals possible (without getting repetitive or incredulous). This is how you suck your readers in. This is how you make them feel and root for your characters. When I realised this I knew I’ve always been too kind for my own characters. I am so grateful for having learned this lesson from such an amazing author.
Even if you’re not into dystopian or fantasy I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in storycraft. The characterisation, the structure, and everything inbetween is excellent. I already loved TEOE but TMOM is my favourite book since Nevernight by Jay Kristoff. And yes, these books can be mentioned in the same breath
No seriously, this book you guys, it was so so good and I needed a couple of days to recover after I finished it. It continues exactly where TEOE left us. Mason has finally discovered who Alira is and he’s less than amused that she was able to hide from him for the past nine months. He treats her absolutely terrible and my heart broke. I thought there was no redeeming his behaviour.
Except here we are...
How the author does it I have no idea but I simply couldn’t NOT love Mason. Especially when he sees he was wrong about his assumptions about Alira, their shared pain, and how their relationship blossoms into something sweet I found myself rooting for them❤️ I savoured each and every moment because I knew it couldn’t last. And it didn’t. And it broke my heart...again. And still...
To write such a character who is wrong in every sense, who does unredeemable things yet makes the reader root for them. That’s good writing.This book had me stuck on the edge of my seat until the last word and I was left with such a heartbreak that I just couldn’t seem to shake
I learned a valuable lesson from this book – aside the fact that I may have an unhealthy taste in book boyfriends lol – which is the effect it has on a reader to let your character go through the worst. We all know the theory. We all try to do horrible things to our characters. But Carmichael does it x1000 and then some. And it works. It works so well to have her go through the worst ordeals possible (without getting repetitive or incredulous). This is how you suck your readers in. This is how you make them feel and root for your characters. When I realised this I knew I’ve always been too kind for my own characters. I am so grateful for having learned this lesson from such an amazing author.
Even if you’re not into dystopian or fantasy I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in storycraft. The characterisation, the structure, and everything inbetween is excellent. I already loved TEOE but TMOM is my favourite book since Nevernight by Jay Kristoff. And yes, these books can be mentioned in the same breath
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2021
Esme, you've done it again! I can't count how many times I gasped, yelled at Mason for his wrongdoings, and just absolutely cheered Maya now Alira on!
The Mover of Mountains was just as enthralling as The End of Everything and The Waltz of Wolves. Complex with everything about Mason and Alira making more sense, why they are the way that they are, and what Mason's past has everything to do with his actions in the present.
There were dark moments between these two characters that had me worry for Alira and her future, wanting her to keep going and not give in to her fear. But I feel as if these dark moments were a way for Alira to truly see the truth that's always been there in front of her.
And the ending really threw me for a loop, something I hope makes anyone who reads this book more than just surprised.
I know this book just came out yesterday, but I really can't wait for the next installment of The Connection Series!
Highly recommend!
Content Warning: dark elements such as rape, murder, torture.
The Mover of Mountains was just as enthralling as The End of Everything and The Waltz of Wolves. Complex with everything about Mason and Alira making more sense, why they are the way that they are, and what Mason's past has everything to do with his actions in the present.
There were dark moments between these two characters that had me worry for Alira and her future, wanting her to keep going and not give in to her fear. But I feel as if these dark moments were a way for Alira to truly see the truth that's always been there in front of her.
And the ending really threw me for a loop, something I hope makes anyone who reads this book more than just surprised.
I know this book just came out yesterday, but I really can't wait for the next installment of The Connection Series!
Highly recommend!
Content Warning: dark elements such as rape, murder, torture.
May 6, 2021
Buckle up. It's a bumpy ride!
The second full-length novel in The Connection Series is very different from the first. We're revisiting many of the same places and characters, but getting to know them in different ways as they change and grow. Not every change is for the better, and sensitive readers will want to check the list of potential triggers before diving in. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll rage... If you're anything like me, you'll do all of these at the same time! Some questions are answered, new ones arise, and if you're in need of an anchor to get through the shifting emotions in this one, my advice is to look to Alira's friends. Remember the people that love her, have faith, and keep going. I can't wait for the next installment!
The second full-length novel in The Connection Series is very different from the first. We're revisiting many of the same places and characters, but getting to know them in different ways as they change and grow. Not every change is for the better, and sensitive readers will want to check the list of potential triggers before diving in. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll rage... If you're anything like me, you'll do all of these at the same time! Some questions are answered, new ones arise, and if you're in need of an anchor to get through the shifting emotions in this one, my advice is to look to Alira's friends. Remember the people that love her, have faith, and keep going. I can't wait for the next installment!
May 6, 2021
Same carmichael
If I could give more star ratings then I most definitely would. This is the second book in this series and I really got into the story which moved a pace keeping me enthralled pretty much page for page
If I could give more star ratings then I most definitely would. This is the second book in this series and I really got into the story which moved a pace keeping me enthralled pretty much page for page
October 7, 2022
Well, what a rollercoaster!
I don't even know where to begin describing this novel.
Once again, Carmichael keeps me lured in with hints and baits that won't leave my mind as I try to figure out just who and what Mason is - yes, I am obsessed with this character more than any other, sue me! Make no mistake, the creature is a lunatic, his mood swings are epic, his gaslighting tremendously accurate, his obsessive need for control, his possessiveness, his poisonous reasoning, all of it keeps me on my toes needing to know just what exactly lies behind him.
As for Alira, I find it hard to relate to her - which happened in book 1 as well, but for me this takes away nothing from my enjoyment of a book, I love reading characters I can't relate to but that feel realistic and understandble. I loved her descent into darkness, and wanted to see more of that Alira (perhaps aimed at Mason himself, hmm, now there's a thought) and my heart tugged at her pain through certain events - which echo some of my own experiences.
As for characters like Verity or Isobel, I was a bit disappointed as they came out - to me - slightly cardboardy and with no real tangible reasons for being the nasty, spiteful women they are, except because they're nasty and spiteful and women and envious of Alira. They remind me of Cinderella's stepsisters, and it's a trope/gimmick I dislike, but that's just me. Verity is indeed absolutely despicable and annoying, Isobel, on the other hand is very much your regular mean girl, and I don't know, perhaps I wanted more from them, a different depth to their beings.
I felt VERY vindicated when a certain suspicion I had been carrying from book 1 materialised before my eyes on the page, and a loud 'YES' may have left my mouth while I was reading, thus attracting the attention of my family...
As for Anya, I think she may be my favourite character, I cannot get over her loyalty and her apparent unconditional love for Alira, she's like the friend I wish I had, the voice of reason, the kind of person who gives you space when you need it but calls you out when necessary. Really love her to bits and if Carmichael as much as touches a hair on her head I may end up in tears!
All in all, this is a great follow-up from book 1, and it has left me with even more questions that I need answered, so I might as well dive straight into book 3 and hope the author soon delivers the final volume of this series!
I don't even know where to begin describing this novel.
Once again, Carmichael keeps me lured in with hints and baits that won't leave my mind as I try to figure out just who and what Mason is - yes, I am obsessed with this character more than any other, sue me! Make no mistake, the creature is a lunatic, his mood swings are epic, his gaslighting tremendously accurate, his obsessive need for control, his possessiveness, his poisonous reasoning, all of it keeps me on my toes needing to know just what exactly lies behind him.
As for Alira, I find it hard to relate to her - which happened in book 1 as well, but for me this takes away nothing from my enjoyment of a book, I love reading characters I can't relate to but that feel realistic and understandble. I loved her descent into darkness, and wanted to see more of that Alira (perhaps aimed at Mason himself, hmm, now there's a thought) and my heart tugged at her pain through certain events - which echo some of my own experiences.
As for characters like Verity or Isobel, I was a bit disappointed as they came out - to me - slightly cardboardy and with no real tangible reasons for being the nasty, spiteful women they are, except because they're nasty and spiteful and women and envious of Alira. They remind me of Cinderella's stepsisters, and it's a trope/gimmick I dislike, but that's just me. Verity is indeed absolutely despicable and annoying, Isobel, on the other hand is very much your regular mean girl, and I don't know, perhaps I wanted more from them, a different depth to their beings.
I felt VERY vindicated when a certain suspicion I had been carrying from book 1 materialised before my eyes on the page, and a loud 'YES' may have left my mouth while I was reading, thus attracting the attention of my family...
As for Anya, I think she may be my favourite character, I cannot get over her loyalty and her apparent unconditional love for Alira, she's like the friend I wish I had, the voice of reason, the kind of person who gives you space when you need it but calls you out when necessary. Really love her to bits and if Carmichael as much as touches a hair on her head I may end up in tears!
All in all, this is a great follow-up from book 1, and it has left me with even more questions that I need answered, so I might as well dive straight into book 3 and hope the author soon delivers the final volume of this series!
April 21, 2021
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book was a rollercoaster! From the first page, Carmichael pulls you immediately back into the dark atmosphere of the New World. It picks up immediately following events in book one.
Maya is gone and Alira is trying to reconcile her new role at the Palace and uncover the past and meaning of her existence. Alira, strong and determined, starts to crack under the continued onslaught of Mason's cruelty. Mason's manipulation continues throughout the book and even the reader is lured into the web of deception.
We meet new characters in this book that will make your blood boil. But some old characters join the story as well in surprising ways. There is more betrayal, heartbreak, trysts, and dangerous dinner parties as we spend the year in the Palace.
Please read the trigger content warning prior to reading this book. Carmichael explores what the human spirit can endure and the ways in which we cope with trauma, adapt to our environments, and develop unhealthy coping mechanisms while exploring dark themes and begs the question: how much trauma can someone endure before they become a monster themselves? And we watch Alira teetering on that knife edge.
This book was a rollercoaster! From the first page, Carmichael pulls you immediately back into the dark atmosphere of the New World. It picks up immediately following events in book one.
Maya is gone and Alira is trying to reconcile her new role at the Palace and uncover the past and meaning of her existence. Alira, strong and determined, starts to crack under the continued onslaught of Mason's cruelty. Mason's manipulation continues throughout the book and even the reader is lured into the web of deception.
We meet new characters in this book that will make your blood boil. But some old characters join the story as well in surprising ways. There is more betrayal, heartbreak, trysts, and dangerous dinner parties as we spend the year in the Palace.
Please read the trigger content warning prior to reading this book. Carmichael explores what the human spirit can endure and the ways in which we cope with trauma, adapt to our environments, and develop unhealthy coping mechanisms while exploring dark themes and begs the question: how much trauma can someone endure before they become a monster themselves? And we watch Alira teetering on that knife edge.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2025
I read books to escape, so this was not a pleasant story to endure for the first half. It was a continuous reminder that even in fiction, people are cruel. What kept me going were the questions I wanted answered, but I often debated if it was worth carrying on. It was. Absolutely. Carmichael is still a talented writer, excelling with description, dangling the carrot of curiosity, and delving into really deep (and dark) subject matters. Though I was bored and struggling to read the very hard content, once I reached the halfway mark I was reminded why I loved the first book. Something I guessed, hoped would happen, came true; Freya answered my prayers.
This sequel did fall a tad short to the previous book I had sung such loud praises with its music. Some parts felt rushed, with many scenes that lasted a page or two and were obvious for the plot. They stuck out instead of flowing with the story. I found a few errors, and occasionally the lack of dialogue tags make me reread the scene to understand who was speaking. There were lots of sentences starting with “but” and while I understand Alira chews her scarred lip as a personality quirk, repetition bothers me.
While some questions were answered, others were not, a perfect hook to keep the readers reading. And so I shall! Book 3, you look oh so promising. Definitely a breath of relief after this hard one.
This sequel did fall a tad short to the previous book I had sung such loud praises with its music. Some parts felt rushed, with many scenes that lasted a page or two and were obvious for the plot. They stuck out instead of flowing with the story. I found a few errors, and occasionally the lack of dialogue tags make me reread the scene to understand who was speaking. There were lots of sentences starting with “but” and while I understand Alira chews her scarred lip as a personality quirk, repetition bothers me.
While some questions were answered, others were not, a perfect hook to keep the readers reading. And so I shall! Book 3, you look oh so promising. Definitely a breath of relief after this hard one.
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August 15, 2021I loved the first book in the series and was really excited for the second. Up to a point, I was really enjoying it, but I think it became a bit dark for me. It felt like it hit a bit close to home in some ways, those who have read it may understand. The book is still well written and I still want to know what happens next - but this one left a sour taste.
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