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Edge Worlds #2
Swift the Storm, Fierce the Flame
A girl hellbent on finding the friend she lost. A planet on the brink of total destruction. Only one way to find answers amidst the team up with a traitor to stage a revolution, in Meg Long's Swift the Storm, Fierce the Flame.
After a mission gone awry two years ago, Remy Castell has been desperately searching across worlds to find the friend she failed to save―the friend who changed her life by helping her overcome the brainwashing she was subjected to as a genetically engineered corporate agent.
Since then, she’s been chasing the only lead she fellow genopath Kiran Lore, the same secretive ex-squadmate who left her for dead when she compromised that mission. She nearly caught up to him on Tundar before joining the infamous sled race alongside outcast Sena and her wolf companion Iska. Now, all three of them have tracked Kiran back to Maraas, the jungle planet where Remy lost everything. But nothing on Maraas is how it was two years ago. Syndicates and scavvers alike are now trying to overthrow a megalomaniac corpo director, which Remy wants nothing to do with; fighting against corpos is as useless as trying to stay dry in the middle of the giant hellstorm that encircles the planet. But the storm―and the rebellion―are growing stronger by the minute.
When Remy finds Kiran, he doesn't run away like she expects. Instead, he offers her a help with the revolution and he'll reunite her with her friend. But can she really trust the boy who betrayed her once before? With the entire planet on the edge of all-out war, Remy will have to decide just how far she's willing to go to save one girl before the impending storm drowns them all.
After a mission gone awry two years ago, Remy Castell has been desperately searching across worlds to find the friend she failed to save―the friend who changed her life by helping her overcome the brainwashing she was subjected to as a genetically engineered corporate agent.
Since then, she’s been chasing the only lead she fellow genopath Kiran Lore, the same secretive ex-squadmate who left her for dead when she compromised that mission. She nearly caught up to him on Tundar before joining the infamous sled race alongside outcast Sena and her wolf companion Iska. Now, all three of them have tracked Kiran back to Maraas, the jungle planet where Remy lost everything. But nothing on Maraas is how it was two years ago. Syndicates and scavvers alike are now trying to overthrow a megalomaniac corpo director, which Remy wants nothing to do with; fighting against corpos is as useless as trying to stay dry in the middle of the giant hellstorm that encircles the planet. But the storm―and the rebellion―are growing stronger by the minute.
When Remy finds Kiran, he doesn't run away like she expects. Instead, he offers her a help with the revolution and he'll reunite her with her friend. But can she really trust the boy who betrayed her once before? With the entire planet on the edge of all-out war, Remy will have to decide just how far she's willing to go to save one girl before the impending storm drowns them all.
416 pages, Hardcover
First published January 17, 2023
22 people are currently reading
4887 people want to read
About the author
Meg Long
2 books276 followersMeg originally wanted to be a spy. Instead she somehow found herself teaching overseas in China and Malaysia before ending up in Colorado, where it snows entirely too much.
She taught middle and high school for eight years before jumping into the tech industry as a content designer. Her debut novel, COLD THE NIGHT, FAST THE WOLVES, will be released in 2022 from Wednesday Books. She was a Pitch Wars mentee in 2018 and a mentor in 2020-21.
When not reading or writing, she’s kicking things at her Muay Thai gym with her boyfriend, playing video games, or obsessing over Sailor Moon fanart.
Fun Facts: Meg likes Oxford commas, bossing her Roomba around, and people-watching at airports.
She taught middle and high school for eight years before jumping into the tech industry as a content designer. Her debut novel, COLD THE NIGHT, FAST THE WOLVES, will be released in 2022 from Wednesday Books. She was a Pitch Wars mentee in 2018 and a mentor in 2020-21.
When not reading or writing, she’s kicking things at her Muay Thai gym with her boyfriend, playing video games, or obsessing over Sailor Moon fanart.
Fun Facts: Meg likes Oxford commas, bossing her Roomba around, and people-watching at airports.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews
November 6, 2023
My thanks to St. Martin's Press, Meg Long and Netgalley. I freaking adored Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves. So excuse me for maybe blowing smoke up your arse and telling you that this was just as good! Now what did I just say? Yeah, smoke... This book was nowhere near as good as the first. But, it's still necessary in the scheme of things. Matter of fact, for me it took me to a place where I'm needed. Where's that? Why that's the next book in this series! Those women are just going about, planet to planet. Kicking ass and taking names! I just happen to be the old fart who is excited to read more. I know this is Y.A., but I'm having a great time with these books. Recommended!
January 1, 2024
IT'S REMY TIME, FRIENDS!!!
Queue Wolves by Selena Gomez which perfectly encapsulates all the vibes in this book:
- a girl searching for the friend who changed her life and then disappeared
- a jungle torn apart by corpos, syndicates, and scavvers fighting for control of a planet
- a boy who betrayed Remy once before who's back with even more SECRETS
- a Jupiter-sized storm that threatens to drown them all
And don't worry, Sena and Iska are there too with their own path to run (and new friends to make. 👀🤐)
Can't wait for everyone to read! :)
Queue Wolves by Selena Gomez which perfectly encapsulates all the vibes in this book:
- a girl searching for the friend who changed her life and then disappeared
- a jungle torn apart by corpos, syndicates, and scavvers fighting for control of a planet
- a boy who betrayed Remy once before who's back with even more SECRETS
- a Jupiter-sized storm that threatens to drown them all
And don't worry, Sena and Iska are there too with their own path to run (and new friends to make. 👀🤐)
Can't wait for everyone to read! :)
February 19, 2023
3¾⭐
…the bullet points
- sci-fi fantasy
- found family vibes
- continuation of Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves
- girl power action & adventure
- a blazing hot jungle planet instead of an icy cold one
- genetically altered humans with special abilities
- not enough Sena and Iska
I loved CTNFTW, and was all set to love this…but I really only liked this one. The MC in this book is Remy (book #1 side character) instead of Sena and therein lies the crux of my problem, it doesn’t have nearly enough Sena and Iska. I also took issue with the MC’s constant toting of her “geno-path” abilities. Like seriously, we get it, you’re super special and much more so than a mere human. All in all…I think I liked Remy more when I wasn’t inside her head.
Otherwise, the world-building is on point and we learn a lot more about the “corpo’s” and whatnot. The ending wasn’t a cliffhanger but it did lead you to believe that there could be more adventures in store for these characters. So….why isn’t this labeled as a series???
…about the narration
🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️/5
- Emily Ellet was amazing, actually. She’s really stepping up her narrating game. She does an array of voices quite well.
...the score
➨ 7.36/10 | Opening-7 | Characters-7.5 | Plot-7 | Atmosphere-7.3 | Writing Style-7.7 | Ending-7.7 | Overall Enjoyment- 7.3
…the bullet points
- sci-fi fantasy
- found family vibes
- continuation of Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves
- girl power action & adventure
- a blazing hot jungle planet instead of an icy cold one
- genetically altered humans with special abilities
- not enough Sena and Iska
I loved CTNFTW, and was all set to love this…but I really only liked this one. The MC in this book is Remy (book #1 side character) instead of Sena and therein lies the crux of my problem, it doesn’t have nearly enough Sena and Iska. I also took issue with the MC’s constant toting of her “geno-path” abilities. Like seriously, we get it, you’re super special and much more so than a mere human. All in all…I think I liked Remy more when I wasn’t inside her head.
Otherwise, the world-building is on point and we learn a lot more about the “corpo’s” and whatnot. The ending wasn’t a cliffhanger but it did lead you to believe that there could be more adventures in store for these characters. So….why isn’t this labeled as a series???
…about the narration
🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️/5
- Emily Ellet was amazing, actually. She’s really stepping up her narrating game. She does an array of voices quite well.
...the score
➨ 7.36/10 | Opening-7 | Characters-7.5 | Plot-7 | Atmosphere-7.3 | Writing Style-7.7 | Ending-7.7 | Overall Enjoyment- 7.3
December 19, 2022
Much like with the author's previous novel, Swift the Storm, Fierce the Flame excels in world building and has a compelling writing style. Unlike her previous novel, however, I did not connect with the characters as much in this one. This may be a personal thing, but I feel like it stemmed from their writing as well. Regardless, this novel still has a dynamic plot and lots of good to it.
Thank you the NetGalley for the eARC!
Thank you the NetGalley for the eARC!
January 31, 2023
*Note: I had stuff going on in my life that impacted my reading, including a migraine
*
I'm definitely getting these quotes on the hardbacks as tattoos one day:)
Loved this just as much as the first book. These characters are Family to me, and I can't wait to see more of them!<3
Once again, she writes everything so well that I can picture it perfectly and you feel like you are in the trenches with them. (I want to see these beautiful glowing flowers in person) I am very glad I'm not stuck on Maraas though, me and the planet wouldn't get along.
I mentally kicked a couple characters in particular *glares*
I squealed when I saw the reference to It was the first show besides So Weird I fell in love with and it warmed my heart to see it in there:). Remy reminded me of Max (high compliment). Thought I was seeing things that weren't there but it made me love the book and author more. (She makes it her own wonderfully).
Can't wait to see what is cooked up next in this universe 😍 🙌 I wanted to be there with Remy, Sena, and Iska..fighting alongside them.
Side note: I can't stop picturing Daisy Ridley as Remy
Certain development at the end with a certain character and the uncertain fate has me worried and hopeful.
Would highly recommend 👌
*
I'm definitely getting these quotes on the hardbacks as tattoos one day:)
Loved this just as much as the first book. These characters are Family to me, and I can't wait to see more of them!<3
Once again, she writes everything so well that I can picture it perfectly and you feel like you are in the trenches with them. (I want to see these beautiful glowing flowers in person) I am very glad I'm not stuck on Maraas though, me and the planet wouldn't get along.
I mentally kicked a couple characters in particular *glares*
I squealed when I saw the reference to It was the first show besides So Weird I fell in love with and it warmed my heart to see it in there:). Remy reminded me of Max (high compliment). Thought I was seeing things that weren't there but it made me love the book and author more. (She makes it her own wonderfully).
Can't wait to see what is cooked up next in this universe 😍 🙌 I wanted to be there with Remy, Sena, and Iska..fighting alongside them.
Side note: I can't stop picturing Daisy Ridley as Remy
Certain development at the end with a certain character and the uncertain fate has me worried and hopeful.
Would highly recommend 👌
January 11, 2023
I read the first book in this series because I got a widget and the cover was intriguing. I loved that book and was excited to hear there was a sequel so I made sure to get a copy! The writing was still good and the world building was amazing, but I had a harder time connecting to the characters in this one. It took me a little bit to get into the story with Remy. I know her lack of emotional upbringing is why Remy is likely so awful at reading the people around her but she is also genetically altered to read people which to be effective should include emotions so it was hard to buy. The two big reveals were a bit anticlimactic to me, but it was still a fun adventure story. The book did pick up and I think it is a worthy story, but it took a bit more getting through whereas the first one I couldn’t put down. I am exciting to see what other adventures this group will get into.
August 4, 2022
This sequel/companion novel to COLD THE NIGHT, FAST THE WOLVES expands the world-building and characters in ways I found super intriguing and fun! This installment is set on a jungle planet, and the protagonist is Remy, a supporting character introduced in WOLVES. I loved the fast-paced, action-packed plotting and devoured this book in a matter of days. Remy's backstory is complex and tragic, and one of the best things about the storyline is her fraught relationship with Kiran, an old friend from her past who quickly became my favorite character. Highly recommended!
September 2, 2022
3.5 stars
So good. You all need to read book, Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves before diving into this but it's so worth it. I don't want to say it improved, but the world-building just hit different here. So many elements were explained so much clearer and built upon what we already knew. From the great characters, to the plot, to the ending, this sequel was executed good.
A special thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press & Wednesday Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
So good. You all need to read book, Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves before diving into this but it's so worth it. I don't want to say it improved, but the world-building just hit different here. So many elements were explained so much clearer and built upon what we already knew. From the great characters, to the plot, to the ending, this sequel was executed good.
A special thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press & Wednesday Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 8, 2024
This was a pretty good sequel. Although it stands well on its own, I still think you will enjoy it more if you read book 1 first! But this one follows a side character from book 1 - but you do see the main character from book 1 as a side character now.
I did like the story and found quite a few action packed moments. However, I didn't connect with this MC like I did in book 1. I liked the storyline, looking for this missing friend, but I didn't love the feel of the different character feelings when I didn't feel like I had a good handle on how the main character felt. It was good, I'm so glad I kept reading, and I'm hoping we do get a book 3 and keep going!
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
I did like the story and found quite a few action packed moments. However, I didn't connect with this MC like I did in book 1. I liked the storyline, looking for this missing friend, but I didn't love the feel of the different character feelings when I didn't feel like I had a good handle on how the main character felt. It was good, I'm so glad I kept reading, and I'm hoping we do get a book 3 and keep going!
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
January 18, 2023
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Young Adult / Science Fiction
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Swift the Storm, Fierce the Flame, is author Meg Long's sequel to Cold Night, Fast Wolves. Genetically engineered from animal and human parts by Nova Corp., Remy Castell looks human, but her body can heal quickly, and she has better reflexes and strength than others. Remy was trained to be a corporate spy. She's an expert at infiltration, sensing people's emotions, physical reactions, and body language. But then a mission that had her infiltrate a syndicate gang ended with Remy becoming true friends with her mark, Sena Korhosen and her vonenewolf Iska, and everything changed.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Young Adult / Science Fiction
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Swift the Storm, Fierce the Flame, is author Meg Long's sequel to Cold Night, Fast Wolves. Genetically engineered from animal and human parts by Nova Corp., Remy Castell looks human, but her body can heal quickly, and she has better reflexes and strength than others. Remy was trained to be a corporate spy. She's an expert at infiltration, sensing people's emotions, physical reactions, and body language. But then a mission that had her infiltrate a syndicate gang ended with Remy becoming true friends with her mark, Sena Korhosen and her vonenewolf Iska, and everything changed.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
September 15, 2023
DNF for now at pg. 206
I really enjoyed the first book of this series, and while this one is good, I'm just not able to connect with it at the moment. One thing that's jarring me is that the story is told in first person present tense, but the flashbacks are in that tense as well. Anyway, I may finish this at a later date. 3 star placeholder rating.
I really enjoyed the first book of this series, and while this one is good, I'm just not able to connect with it at the moment. One thing that's jarring me is that the story is told in first person present tense, but the flashbacks are in that tense as well. Anyway, I may finish this at a later date. 3 star placeholder rating.
December 27, 2022
I’m only giving it a two because it was different. Otherwise…
Starting with the cover which looks like this would be a fantasy novel but it’s all science fiction.
I have so many opinions, it’s hard to know where to start-lol. First of all, the first four pages was a HUGE infodump. Why do YA authors do this? 🤬
Then, this book uses the terms planet and world which are different things in science fiction canon. A world would indicate that there are multi-dimensions-at least that’s what I think. But a planet is a place in a world. I couldn’t understand what was a world and what was a planet and I don’t think it was explained well.
The main character constantly talked about finding this girl she loved/liked🤷🏾♀️. It got on my last nerve.
The author does a poor job of world building so when the shit hits the fan, I can tell that I’m supposed to have an emotional response but I don’t because I’m not invested in the world. There’s also TONS of tell and no show. The main character constantly tells us she’s intuitive and good at intel but everyone is three steps ahead of her. SHE SUCKS AT HER JOB!
This book is trying to develop two major themes-consumerism and emotions. The consumerism theme is so disjointed in her world. Companies are greedy and they sabotage everything to be leaders at least that’s what I could gather. This world is so underdeveloped that I wasn’t understanding the point of the companies. The main character is engineered in a lab so she’s an android? Anyway, she’s made to not love but she develops feelings for another person. But this book really doesn’t explore this HUGE theme.
By 40% I wanted to DNF but I needed to know what happened to the girl she loved/liked and I powered thru to 80%. I then just read the last chapter and talk about melodramatic-YUCK.
This book ain’t it. If you are looking for a good YA science fiction book, read Scythe or Aurora Rising.
Starting with the cover which looks like this would be a fantasy novel but it’s all science fiction.
I have so many opinions, it’s hard to know where to start-lol. First of all, the first four pages was a HUGE infodump. Why do YA authors do this? 🤬
Then, this book uses the terms planet and world which are different things in science fiction canon. A world would indicate that there are multi-dimensions-at least that’s what I think. But a planet is a place in a world. I couldn’t understand what was a world and what was a planet and I don’t think it was explained well.
The main character constantly talked about finding this girl she loved/liked🤷🏾♀️. It got on my last nerve.
The author does a poor job of world building so when the shit hits the fan, I can tell that I’m supposed to have an emotional response but I don’t because I’m not invested in the world. There’s also TONS of tell and no show. The main character constantly tells us she’s intuitive and good at intel but everyone is three steps ahead of her. SHE SUCKS AT HER JOB!
This book is trying to develop two major themes-consumerism and emotions. The consumerism theme is so disjointed in her world. Companies are greedy and they sabotage everything to be leaders at least that’s what I could gather. This world is so underdeveloped that I wasn’t understanding the point of the companies. The main character is engineered in a lab so she’s an android? Anyway, she’s made to not love but she develops feelings for another person. But this book really doesn’t explore this HUGE theme.
By 40% I wanted to DNF but I needed to know what happened to the girl she loved/liked and I powered thru to 80%. I then just read the last chapter and talk about melodramatic-YUCK.
This book ain’t it. If you are looking for a good YA science fiction book, read Scythe or Aurora Rising.
December 12, 2022
Thank you to Wednesday Books and Netgalley for providing me with this arc in exchange for an honest review! (Nothing taken, nothing given.)
"Here, the jungle is its own entity, alive and waiting for prey to get lost within its vines."
I didn't finish this book, but it was against my will. I've been busy and procrastinated and had 20% left to finish with 4 hours left to read the book, and suddenly Netgalley gave me an "unexpected LCP error."
Putting that aside, I was very enthralled with the book, and am looking forward to finishing it in January.
Swift the Storm, Fierce the Flame starts off strong, hooking you with action in the first chapter. It throws you into the world and everything immediately - there's no boring exposition, and it's a lot of fun.
The elaboration on the world building that the debut established was so intriguing
and I loved the terms used. Along with that, the animals and system that's described are so vivid and creative, you can really tell the author enjoyed writing the book.
It was great reading about Sena and Iska again as well!
Like CTNFTW, I kept thinking about how much potential it has for a movie or tv adaptation because it's such a vivid sci-fi. The action is nonstop and I could picture everything thanks to all the details and descriptions.
I really was very interested in this book!!
I found Remy's character and abilities to be so engaging! She was very interesting to read from the perspective from but she unfortunately really annoyed me for a good portion of the book.
I found myself getting frustrated with her self-righteousness and her lack of self-awareness at times. It wouldn't have annoyed me as much if she didn't keep hurting someone else for those exact same qualities - I understand the psychology behind this, it's very accurate and realistic - good writing - but that's just my honest thoughts on it.
In her treatment of her partner, she immediately just kept wanting to hurt and fight instead of actual discussion because her anger and inability to take valid criticism forbid her from doing so. Thus, she just kept scapegoating this one person for all her problems.
However, with that said: I liked how it all eventually unfolded. (At least to the 80% mark.) It worked out! Her character development that I got to see is great and appreciated. It develops slowly - it doesn't feel rushed, which is wonderful.
And her mental struggles are very well-written as well, and I can empathize and relate to her on some aspects with that. Her character flaws may have annoyed me, but they were written in a splendid way and were understandable.
My other qualm is how often details are repeated - it seems like Remy is always mentioning her engineered genes and
enhanced senses and her friend.
Also, I surprisingly guessed the twist but it was so good!!! The little clever hints in the wording were so much fun.
All in all, I will be buying and finishing this in January, and I think I would reread this, just like the first one.
This feels like a very fitting, perfect sequel to CTNFTW, and I'm excited for what Meg Long is writing next. (And for January 17th, so I can know of the great ending I keep hearing about!)
"Here, the jungle is its own entity, alive and waiting for prey to get lost within its vines."
I didn't finish this book, but it was against my will. I've been busy and procrastinated and had 20% left to finish with 4 hours left to read the book, and suddenly Netgalley gave me an "unexpected LCP error."
Putting that aside, I was very enthralled with the book, and am looking forward to finishing it in January.
Swift the Storm, Fierce the Flame starts off strong, hooking you with action in the first chapter. It throws you into the world and everything immediately - there's no boring exposition, and it's a lot of fun.
The elaboration on the world building that the debut established was so intriguing
and I loved the terms used. Along with that, the animals and system that's described are so vivid and creative, you can really tell the author enjoyed writing the book.
It was great reading about Sena and Iska again as well!
Like CTNFTW, I kept thinking about how much potential it has for a movie or tv adaptation because it's such a vivid sci-fi. The action is nonstop and I could picture everything thanks to all the details and descriptions.
I really was very interested in this book!!
I found Remy's character and abilities to be so engaging! She was very interesting to read from the perspective from but she unfortunately really annoyed me for a good portion of the book.
I found myself getting frustrated with her self-righteousness and her lack of self-awareness at times. It wouldn't have annoyed me as much if she didn't keep hurting someone else for those exact same qualities - I understand the psychology behind this, it's very accurate and realistic - good writing - but that's just my honest thoughts on it.
In her treatment of her partner, she immediately just kept wanting to hurt and fight instead of actual discussion because her anger and inability to take valid criticism forbid her from doing so. Thus, she just kept scapegoating this one person for all her problems.
However, with that said: I liked how it all eventually unfolded. (At least to the 80% mark.) It worked out! Her character development that I got to see is great and appreciated. It develops slowly - it doesn't feel rushed, which is wonderful.
And her mental struggles are very well-written as well, and I can empathize and relate to her on some aspects with that. Her character flaws may have annoyed me, but they were written in a splendid way and were understandable.
My other qualm is how often details are repeated - it seems like Remy is always mentioning her engineered genes and
enhanced senses and her friend.
Also, I surprisingly guessed the twist but it was so good!!! The little clever hints in the wording were so much fun.
All in all, I will be buying and finishing this in January, and I think I would reread this, just like the first one.
This feels like a very fitting, perfect sequel to CTNFTW, and I'm excited for what Meg Long is writing next. (And for January 17th, so I can know of the great ending I keep hearing about!)
January 24, 2023
I was provided an ARC of this book via Netgalley, all opinions are my own.
This picks up a few months after Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves, with Remy as the main character. Sena and Iska are present throughout, but they are more side characters and their advendure on Tundar doesn't really play much of a part in this new adventure. I do recommend reading Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves first so you get and understanding of some of the references and backstory. I do feel you could read this as a standalone and not be terribly lost though. This is more like a companion novel in my opinion than a sequel.
In this installment, Remy shines as the main character as she tries to find a lost friend and her former partner who betrayed her. Sena and her wolf Iska are along for the ride, and the three of them find themselves on a rainy jungle like planet completely opposite of where they came from. Remy uses her genetic engineering to infiltrate and gather intel on the leadership that is now in place on Marass to help locate her ex-partner Kiran in order to reset mistakes of the past.
I really enjoyed this second installment! It was nice that it wasn't a traditional sequel and followed Remy instead of Sena, though Sena and Iska were still very present and involved in the storyline. It feels like we are going to get a third book, and I hope it follows the same format. I'm looking forward to seeing who the main character will be next. Remy is constantly fighting her genetic programming vs who she is as a person. She wants to do what is right and is constantly asking herself, "Am I like this because that is how I was made?" "Or am I my own person?" In the end she's a little of both. but she gets to choose what side she is on. I'd like to see a bit more character development from Remy when it comes to her emotions, but for most of the book I think she felt like she wasn't engineered to have them. She developed one friendship in her life and she felt if failed, and I hope we get to see her work on that more in the future.
This had great world building. Long does a great job describing the setting and the creative creatures she came up with. The pacing was a little slow for my taste but it does pick up in the second half as the revolution gets organized and starts to move forward. There is more action in the second half once we know all of the players and have the lay of the land.
I look forward to seeing what the author comes up with in the future!
This picks up a few months after Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves, with Remy as the main character. Sena and Iska are present throughout, but they are more side characters and their advendure on Tundar doesn't really play much of a part in this new adventure. I do recommend reading Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves first so you get and understanding of some of the references and backstory. I do feel you could read this as a standalone and not be terribly lost though. This is more like a companion novel in my opinion than a sequel.
In this installment, Remy shines as the main character as she tries to find a lost friend and her former partner who betrayed her. Sena and her wolf Iska are along for the ride, and the three of them find themselves on a rainy jungle like planet completely opposite of where they came from. Remy uses her genetic engineering to infiltrate and gather intel on the leadership that is now in place on Marass to help locate her ex-partner Kiran in order to reset mistakes of the past.
I really enjoyed this second installment! It was nice that it wasn't a traditional sequel and followed Remy instead of Sena, though Sena and Iska were still very present and involved in the storyline. It feels like we are going to get a third book, and I hope it follows the same format. I'm looking forward to seeing who the main character will be next. Remy is constantly fighting her genetic programming vs who she is as a person. She wants to do what is right and is constantly asking herself, "Am I like this because that is how I was made?" "Or am I my own person?" In the end she's a little of both. but she gets to choose what side she is on. I'd like to see a bit more character development from Remy when it comes to her emotions, but for most of the book I think she felt like she wasn't engineered to have them. She developed one friendship in her life and she felt if failed, and I hope we get to see her work on that more in the future.
This had great world building. Long does a great job describing the setting and the creative creatures she came up with. The pacing was a little slow for my taste but it does pick up in the second half as the revolution gets organized and starts to move forward. There is more action in the second half once we know all of the players and have the lay of the land.
I look forward to seeing what the author comes up with in the future!
Want to read
September 17, 2022I'm usually so critical of sequels but this one was just so good. If you haven't, you need to read the first book Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves before you dive into this one. I loved the characters and I loved the plot. There's so much action and drama, which kept me entertained the whole entire time. Lots of reveals in this book as well! Meg Long definitely did this story justice and I cannot wait to see what else she decides to do with this world she built. Absolutely recommend reading this one, but read the prequel first!
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this free arc in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this free arc in exchange for my honest review.
December 27, 2022
It had a lot of potential, but essentially, it lost its momentum about halfway.
The constant repetition of her saving her friend, the blind eye to everyone around her expect that friend, and the same conversations every chapter annoyed me more than anything.
The only thing I did enjoy was the jungle vibes, I felt the heat, the humidity, the mud and rain. I also enjoyed how Sena and Iska were present…
Sadly, I ended up wishing the book to be shorter and for the author to have developed the characters more realistically. The plot was good, but the ‘friend’ obsession was not it.
The constant repetition of her saving her friend, the blind eye to everyone around her expect that friend, and the same conversations every chapter annoyed me more than anything.
The only thing I did enjoy was the jungle vibes, I felt the heat, the humidity, the mud and rain. I also enjoyed how Sena and Iska were present…
Sadly, I ended up wishing the book to be shorter and for the author to have developed the characters more realistically. The plot was good, but the ‘friend’ obsession was not it.
March 28, 2023
3.5 stars.
This is the second in a trilogy, but really can act as a standalone for the most part. Still, I recommend reading Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves if possible before diving in.
There was a lot to really like about this book, including a some great action sequences and some good character interactions. Like the first in the series, there is some fantastic world-building and the introduction to another interesting planet. The political ins-and-outs can get a little confusing now and again, but the overarching story is easy enough to follow.
Unfortunately, I got dragged down by the pacing and lost my steam a few times while reading. This resulted in read that took me nearly 2 months (I typically finish physical reads in 7-10 days). I didn't connect to the characters as well for whatever reason, and I struggled through the middle chunk of the novel. I temporarily soft DNFd and circled back to it after reading a few other things to see if it was just my mood at the time, but I still did have to power through for a bit. I will attribute some of this to second novel syndrome as this for some reason does happen a lot to the middle books of trilogies.
However...I will say that my interest in the series was amped back up again by the final 1/4 of the plot and I am definitely going to be reading the finale of the trilogy. This baby ends with a kick and I need to know how this is all going to work out in the end.
This is the second in a trilogy, but really can act as a standalone for the most part. Still, I recommend reading Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves if possible before diving in.
There was a lot to really like about this book, including a some great action sequences and some good character interactions. Like the first in the series, there is some fantastic world-building and the introduction to another interesting planet. The political ins-and-outs can get a little confusing now and again, but the overarching story is easy enough to follow.
Unfortunately, I got dragged down by the pacing and lost my steam a few times while reading. This resulted in read that took me nearly 2 months (I typically finish physical reads in 7-10 days). I didn't connect to the characters as well for whatever reason, and I struggled through the middle chunk of the novel. I temporarily soft DNFd and circled back to it after reading a few other things to see if it was just my mood at the time, but I still did have to power through for a bit. I will attribute some of this to second novel syndrome as this for some reason does happen a lot to the middle books of trilogies.
However...I will say that my interest in the series was amped back up again by the final 1/4 of the plot and I am definitely going to be reading the finale of the trilogy. This baby ends with a kick and I need to know how this is all going to work out in the end.
December 11, 2022
3 stars
This is book two technically, but I don't think you will be totally lost if you just read this book. It has a seperate plot going on. If you do read Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves, you will get a lot of background on Sena and Iska. I really liked the first, and looked forward to diving into this one. It didn't work for me as much, I think largely because of who Remy is as a character. I didn't connect with both her, and the new setting at all. I hated how much in the background Sena and Iska were because I grew to love them so much in the first book. The first half is a lot of new characters and setting for a second book, and I think the pace suffered because of it. The second half picks up remarkably. If you like strategy focused books set in a jungle with love triangles I think you could love this book.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is book two technically, but I don't think you will be totally lost if you just read this book. It has a seperate plot going on. If you do read Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves, you will get a lot of background on Sena and Iska. I really liked the first, and looked forward to diving into this one. It didn't work for me as much, I think largely because of who Remy is as a character. I didn't connect with both her, and the new setting at all. I hated how much in the background Sena and Iska were because I grew to love them so much in the first book. The first half is a lot of new characters and setting for a second book, and I think the pace suffered because of it. The second half picks up remarkably. If you like strategy focused books set in a jungle with love triangles I think you could love this book.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 3, 2023
3.5 stars
First off, I thought the change in setting for this book was great. We went from a cold, icy planet to a hot, rainy jungle. I also liked that Remy was the main character and we got to know her history, but that Sena and Iska were a big presence still. The friendship between the girls was nice to read about and they're both pretty badass.
What I struggled with was that the plot was so focused on Remy finding Alora and not much else. Once we knew what happened to Alora, the rest of the story fell flat. I wanted there to be more dimension to the plot, maybe better side stories or giving Sena more to do than be Remy's sidekick? The ending didn't make sense to me and felt dramatic just for the sake of drama. It did seem to lead into a third and final book, which I'd be interested in reading to see how it all wraps up.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All opinions are my own. Thank you to Wednesday Books and NetGalley for the copy
First off, I thought the change in setting for this book was great. We went from a cold, icy planet to a hot, rainy jungle. I also liked that Remy was the main character and we got to know her history, but that Sena and Iska were a big presence still. The friendship between the girls was nice to read about and they're both pretty badass.
What I struggled with was that the plot was so focused on Remy finding Alora and not much else. Once we knew what happened to Alora, the rest of the story fell flat. I wanted there to be more dimension to the plot, maybe better side stories or giving Sena more to do than be Remy's sidekick? The ending didn't make sense to me and felt dramatic just for the sake of drama. It did seem to lead into a third and final book, which I'd be interested in reading to see how it all wraps up.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All opinions are my own. Thank you to Wednesday Books and NetGalley for the copy
January 17, 2023
Here is a video I made for the book on TikTok @katherinebichler
https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTRpL25mh/
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
4.5/5 STARS
This is a YA dystopian book. I read it as a stand alone, but it makes a lot of reference to another book in the same world which I did not read first. I was still able to easily follow along. It didn’t make me like it any less, only made me want to go back and read her first book!
I had not read a good dystopian book in a while and this one was very good. It is a mix between The 100 and Divergent series: teens trying to survive in a dystopian world. There is a little enemies/friends to lovers and a touch of a queer romance, but that is not the focus. It is very much an action/adventure, fun read, leaving off with the potential for another book. I will definitely be reading her other book now.
Thank you to Wednesday Books for the advance reader copy! 🌿🐊🐺
https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTRpL25mh/
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
4.5/5 STARS
This is a YA dystopian book. I read it as a stand alone, but it makes a lot of reference to another book in the same world which I did not read first. I was still able to easily follow along. It didn’t make me like it any less, only made me want to go back and read her first book!
I had not read a good dystopian book in a while and this one was very good. It is a mix between The 100 and Divergent series: teens trying to survive in a dystopian world. There is a little enemies/friends to lovers and a touch of a queer romance, but that is not the focus. It is very much an action/adventure, fun read, leaving off with the potential for another book. I will definitely be reading her other book now.
Thank you to Wednesday Books for the advance reader copy! 🌿🐊🐺
Want to read
October 31, 2022Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martins Press and Wednesday Books for the eARC of Swift the Storm, Fierce the Flame!
I didn't realize this was a sequel/companion novel when I requested- so I had to quickly go purchase Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves. I really enjoyed reading both novels and was so happy the story continued to get better with the second book! The world building was intricate and very intriguing and continued to expand through the Swift the Storm, Fierce the Flame. Some things I really loved about this Fantasy/Sci-Fi book- Strong Female Characters, Strong Friendships, Non-stop Action, Plot Twists I most absolutely did not see coming!
Highly recommend!!
I didn't realize this was a sequel/companion novel when I requested- so I had to quickly go purchase Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves. I really enjoyed reading both novels and was so happy the story continued to get better with the second book! The world building was intricate and very intriguing and continued to expand through the Swift the Storm, Fierce the Flame. Some things I really loved about this Fantasy/Sci-Fi book- Strong Female Characters, Strong Friendships, Non-stop Action, Plot Twists I most absolutely did not see coming!
Highly recommend!!
October 11, 2022
Thank you to St. Martin Press, Wednesday Books and NetGalley for an electronic ARC of this novel.
I really enjoyed reading Meg Long's Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves, and was super excited to get a chance to read the sequel. This story continues the adventures of Sena and her trusty wolf Iska, but the main character of this novel is Remy Castell, who teamed up with Sena and Iska at the end of the first novel. Remy is a genetically enhanced human who was forced to run missions for a shady corporation, and she is on a mission to find her friend Alora. In the past, Remy was ordered to become Alora's bodyguard to get closer to Alora's father, who was a crime lord on the planet Maraas, a jungle planet.
Remy reunites with her ex partner, Kiran, who betrayed her and left her in the jungle when a mob takeover happened on Maraas and led to Alora's disappearance. Kiran offers her info about Alora in exchange for her help in overthrowing the current government.
Both Remy and Sena are trying to figure out who they are and also come to terms with their past. Remy is an interesting character as she heals quickly, moves fast and can think super fast ahead of everyone else. But she grew up being forced to follow corporate orders and is trying to live her own live without those constraints and trying to stay away from being put into their hands once again.
Maraas was a fun setting, a huge contrast to the frozen world of Tundar, which was the setting of the first novel. I enjoyed that this novel continued the storylines of Sena and Iska but from a different person's point of view. I'm hoping for a third novel, maybe from yet another character! I liked the action, the plot and the characterization.
I really enjoyed this novel and am hoping for another book to continue this universe!
I really enjoyed reading Meg Long's Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves, and was super excited to get a chance to read the sequel. This story continues the adventures of Sena and her trusty wolf Iska, but the main character of this novel is Remy Castell, who teamed up with Sena and Iska at the end of the first novel. Remy is a genetically enhanced human who was forced to run missions for a shady corporation, and she is on a mission to find her friend Alora. In the past, Remy was ordered to become Alora's bodyguard to get closer to Alora's father, who was a crime lord on the planet Maraas, a jungle planet.
Remy reunites with her ex partner, Kiran, who betrayed her and left her in the jungle when a mob takeover happened on Maraas and led to Alora's disappearance. Kiran offers her info about Alora in exchange for her help in overthrowing the current government.
Both Remy and Sena are trying to figure out who they are and also come to terms with their past. Remy is an interesting character as she heals quickly, moves fast and can think super fast ahead of everyone else. But she grew up being forced to follow corporate orders and is trying to live her own live without those constraints and trying to stay away from being put into their hands once again.
Maraas was a fun setting, a huge contrast to the frozen world of Tundar, which was the setting of the first novel. I enjoyed that this novel continued the storylines of Sena and Iska but from a different person's point of view. I'm hoping for a third novel, maybe from yet another character! I liked the action, the plot and the characterization.
I really enjoyed this novel and am hoping for another book to continue this universe!
October 20, 2022
I adored "Cold the Night," so it pains me to say that I was super disappointed in "Swift the Storm" (I am apparently in the minority in that opinion). Other than solid action scenes, this book was, IMO, lacking the heart the previous book had.
I think for me, the change in narrator just didn't work. I really loved Sena and her wolf and got very emotionally invested in the narrative arch in the first book. However, Remy, by her very nature is more of a cipher, keeping her feeling locked away. This means some readers (like me) may have a harder time connecting with her.
Because of this, this book's pacing felt off to me, mostly because I had a hard time becoming invested in Remy's story. The first half of the book mainly consists of introducing characters, describing the this new planet, and Remy's flashbacks. In other words, we're mostly trapped in Remy's head while she thinks and talks (but rarely relates to others) and that's a perspective I found kind of dull.
Remy doesn't really have any deep relationships. Clearly she is a bit in love with Alora. Clearly Kiran is in love with her (please stop with his "onyx eyes." We get it. They're dark.) None of those feelings get explored in this book.
And most disappointingly Sena is relegated to background window dressing--she is a sounding board for Remy's exposition in the beginning of the book, and off working on parallel projects in the second half. She apparently also develops some sort of relationship with Emeko, but it's never explored.
So, I guess in the end, this comes down to a simply matter of perspective. I think Sena deserved better and I like like her more than Remy. Maaaaaybe I'd be down to read a third book in the series, but only if the narrator changes again to someone else.
Thanks to the author and NetGalley for granting me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
I think for me, the change in narrator just didn't work. I really loved Sena and her wolf and got very emotionally invested in the narrative arch in the first book. However, Remy, by her very nature is more of a cipher, keeping her feeling locked away. This means some readers (like me) may have a harder time connecting with her.
Because of this, this book's pacing felt off to me, mostly because I had a hard time becoming invested in Remy's story. The first half of the book mainly consists of introducing characters, describing the this new planet, and Remy's flashbacks. In other words, we're mostly trapped in Remy's head while she thinks and talks (but rarely relates to others) and that's a perspective I found kind of dull.
Remy doesn't really have any deep relationships. Clearly she is a bit in love with Alora. Clearly Kiran is in love with her (please stop with his "onyx eyes." We get it. They're dark.) None of those feelings get explored in this book.
And most disappointingly Sena is relegated to background window dressing--she is a sounding board for Remy's exposition in the beginning of the book, and off working on parallel projects in the second half. She apparently also develops some sort of relationship with Emeko, but it's never explored.
So, I guess in the end, this comes down to a simply matter of perspective. I think Sena deserved better and I like like her more than Remy. Maaaaaybe I'd be down to read a third book in the series, but only if the narrator changes again to someone else.
Thanks to the author and NetGalley for granting me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 13, 2023
Did you guys know this was a sequel? I had absolutely no idea, whoops? This is fairly on brand for me, let's be honest. But I think I would almost think of it as more of a companion to
Cold the Wolves
, really- it follows a different main character, on a different planet, and while there are references to the first book, I don't actually think you'd have to read it. I mean you should and could, it was good, and that was a lot of rhyming and I digress, so let's just get to it.
I enjoyed this book a bit more than the first, I think. I found the planet itself really fascinating, and I think I got a bit of a better grasp of what was happening on it. Also, as much as I loved hanging out on an icy planet, the jungle is just more fun. I also think I enjoyed Remy's story a bit more, though I did enjoy both girls' characters, and we do still get to see what goes on with Sena, the main character from the first book.
I liked that Remy's character was wonderfully gray, and so was most of what happened around her, too. A pretty significant part of the plot involved a power struggle and political maneuvers, and I still don't totally understand what is going on politically in this world? But I did at least understand it more, and have a better idea of who the key players were, so there's that. I also liked that we got to explore Remy's relationships, both past and present. There were some twists, a few of which I had guessed, but it was still an entertaining story.
Bottom Line: I assume there will be another cool planet somewhere, and I am absolutely down for it.
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
I enjoyed this book a bit more than the first, I think. I found the planet itself really fascinating, and I think I got a bit of a better grasp of what was happening on it. Also, as much as I loved hanging out on an icy planet, the jungle is just more fun. I also think I enjoyed Remy's story a bit more, though I did enjoy both girls' characters, and we do still get to see what goes on with Sena, the main character from the first book.
I liked that Remy's character was wonderfully gray, and so was most of what happened around her, too. A pretty significant part of the plot involved a power struggle and political maneuvers, and I still don't totally understand what is going on politically in this world? But I did at least understand it more, and have a better idea of who the key players were, so there's that. I also liked that we got to explore Remy's relationships, both past and present. There were some twists, a few of which I had guessed, but it was still an entertaining story.
Bottom Line: I assume there will be another cool planet somewhere, and I am absolutely down for it.
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
December 21, 2023
The concept of a dystopian jungle planet ravaged by storms, a strong FMC, with animal companions hooked me in. But the world building was confusing and the pacing uneven. Was told you could read this without reading the other standalone book in the series but it seems like I never got attached to the world, the characters, or anything at all. (+) queer inclusivity
April 15, 2023
Manifesting an attractive evil lady CEO as the main antagonist for this one
#CalledIt
Also, WHAT WAS THAT ENDING 😭
#CalledIt
Also, WHAT WAS THAT ENDING 😭
January 30, 2023
Thank you Wednesday Books for sending me an eARC via NetGalley for an honest review.
4.5 stars
CWs: death, blood, injury detail, torture (historical, off-page, mentioned and referenced in minor detail), explosions
This is a companion/sequel to Cold The Night, Fast The Wolves, but it’s told from the POV of Remy instead of Sena. I wouldn’t say it’s 100% necessary to read CTNFTW before reading this one, but there are quite a lot of references to things that happen in that one so for a better understanding of the story and the friendship between Remy and Sena, I’d recommend reading that one first.
This book picked up right in the middle of the action with Remy, Sena, and Iska trying to navigate through a hell storm and land safely on the planet of Maraas. Of course things don’t go according to plan, and the trio learn that the 2 years since Remy had been there have seen a lot of changes. TerraCo is in charge with a woman named Weiland and her top henchman Taggert playing the roles of the main villains in the book. Remy is searching for her old friend Alora, and she’s a determined to hunt down her ex-partner, Kiran, to do so.
I loved Remy’s character. She was really well-developed, and her emotions came across really well. The genetic modifications made for interesting abilities, and I thought the various scents in particular were well described. Remy really goes through a lot of different emotions throughout the book, and I really liked her growth as she learned more about herself and who she really was. I also liked her changing and developing relationships with the people around her. Her history with Kiran was intriguing, and I really liked the two of them.
The plot was really well paced and developed. It took me a few days to get really into the story, but once I got into it I couldn’t put it down. Some chapters moved faster than others, and the ones with action and excitement were easier to get lost in. Overall, the pacing of the story was good, and the writing style was easy to follow and fall into. I’m really hoping for another book because the ending leaves many unanswered questions about the corpos and the characters talk about the future and continuing to fight.
I connected with the characters so much, and there were so many times where the book had me gasping and on the verge of tears. Especially where Iska was concerned because I love that wolf and I loved her in the first book. There were also many moments of friendship and hope, and I liked the way the author handled Remy’s character as a narrator.
The setting of the story was really intriguing. Much of it takes place in the jungle, and the planet was so different from Tundar (the setting of the first book). I liked learning more about this world and seeing a new setting. The author’s descriptions were vivid and I could absolutely picture everything in my mind.
If you’re looking for a story with an adventure, fighting against corporations, rebellion, learning about yourself, all the feels, a wolf companion, and lots of explosions then check out this one!
4.5 stars
CWs: death, blood, injury detail, torture (historical, off-page, mentioned and referenced in minor detail), explosions
This is a companion/sequel to Cold The Night, Fast The Wolves, but it’s told from the POV of Remy instead of Sena. I wouldn’t say it’s 100% necessary to read CTNFTW before reading this one, but there are quite a lot of references to things that happen in that one so for a better understanding of the story and the friendship between Remy and Sena, I’d recommend reading that one first.
This book picked up right in the middle of the action with Remy, Sena, and Iska trying to navigate through a hell storm and land safely on the planet of Maraas. Of course things don’t go according to plan, and the trio learn that the 2 years since Remy had been there have seen a lot of changes. TerraCo is in charge with a woman named Weiland and her top henchman Taggert playing the roles of the main villains in the book. Remy is searching for her old friend Alora, and she’s a determined to hunt down her ex-partner, Kiran, to do so.
I loved Remy’s character. She was really well-developed, and her emotions came across really well. The genetic modifications made for interesting abilities, and I thought the various scents in particular were well described. Remy really goes through a lot of different emotions throughout the book, and I really liked her growth as she learned more about herself and who she really was. I also liked her changing and developing relationships with the people around her. Her history with Kiran was intriguing, and I really liked the two of them.
The plot was really well paced and developed. It took me a few days to get really into the story, but once I got into it I couldn’t put it down. Some chapters moved faster than others, and the ones with action and excitement were easier to get lost in. Overall, the pacing of the story was good, and the writing style was easy to follow and fall into. I’m really hoping for another book because the ending leaves many unanswered questions about the corpos and the characters talk about the future and continuing to fight.
I connected with the characters so much, and there were so many times where the book had me gasping and on the verge of tears. Especially where Iska was concerned because I love that wolf and I loved her in the first book. There were also many moments of friendship and hope, and I liked the way the author handled Remy’s character as a narrator.
The setting of the story was really intriguing. Much of it takes place in the jungle, and the planet was so different from Tundar (the setting of the first book). I liked learning more about this world and seeing a new setting. The author’s descriptions were vivid and I could absolutely picture everything in my mind.
If you’re looking for a story with an adventure, fighting against corporations, rebellion, learning about yourself, all the feels, a wolf companion, and lots of explosions then check out this one!
January 17, 2023
Read a NetGalley eARC
Content warning: gun violence, weather disasters, blood, explosions, loss of parents, colonialism, implied nonconsensual medical experimentation, mentions of torture. There is a wolf. The wolf experiences some peril, but the wolf does not die or suffer permanent injury
Once again, Meg Long takes the reader on a journey that is full of feeling, fun worldbuilding, and the complexity of friendship and surviving trauma. Sena and her wolf, Iska, are side characters in this adventure told from Remy’s point of view. It takes them to Maraas, a lush, jungle planet plagued by a hellstorm which rests the landscape every two weeks and the corporations at war with the syndicates. Remy searches for a good friend who she lost several years ago, and that might mean teaming up with the boy who betrayed their partnership at the same time.
Excellently paced, intriguing, and healing, I really enjoyed this return to Long’s slice of the cosmos, this time in stormy jungle rather than in a frozen tundra.
This book has close to everything: female friendship, corporate wars, coups and intrigue, a very good girl. Once again, I had a blast reading another story in this world. The details are incredible, and the web of corporations, syndicates, and people just trying to get by lends itself well to plot-twisty intrigue. Weiland (I see what you did there) is such a great villain because she fully embodies evil, but the story continually reminds the reader that taking out one head doesn’t kill the hydra of greed. Their goals and objectives will feel familiar as far off-world colonialization and power greed go.
If you’re a fan of the trope of brainwashed, genetically-enhanced spy learns to love and trust people, you are in a treat. Also, good news for people who would prefer their young adult books to be absent of a romance arc: this book has none. Its heart lies with Remy opening herself up to the possibility of another friendship and finding what trust means to her. That journey of healing and recovery really resonated with me. Though one thing I did find rad was the mention of the possibility of a romantic entanglement between Remy and Alora. This is ultimately avoided as Remy isn’t sure where she stands on love and romance, but the intensity of the friendship is palpable throughout the entire novel, especially as more people come into the fold of the brewing rebelling. The same goes with her continued relationship with Sena and mending partnership with Kiran. Having so many friendships at different phases allows for much room for nuance and development. There’s an impressive breadth of emotion presented amid the high octane escapes and fight scenes.
A science fiction adventure with even more espionage and sabotage, with great choreography and world-building the nails a bunch of tropes that make the genre so cool to begin with.
Content warning: gun violence, weather disasters, blood, explosions, loss of parents, colonialism, implied nonconsensual medical experimentation, mentions of torture. There is a wolf. The wolf experiences some peril, but the wolf does not die or suffer permanent injury
Once again, Meg Long takes the reader on a journey that is full of feeling, fun worldbuilding, and the complexity of friendship and surviving trauma. Sena and her wolf, Iska, are side characters in this adventure told from Remy’s point of view. It takes them to Maraas, a lush, jungle planet plagued by a hellstorm which rests the landscape every two weeks and the corporations at war with the syndicates. Remy searches for a good friend who she lost several years ago, and that might mean teaming up with the boy who betrayed their partnership at the same time.
Excellently paced, intriguing, and healing, I really enjoyed this return to Long’s slice of the cosmos, this time in stormy jungle rather than in a frozen tundra.
This book has close to everything: female friendship, corporate wars, coups and intrigue, a very good girl. Once again, I had a blast reading another story in this world. The details are incredible, and the web of corporations, syndicates, and people just trying to get by lends itself well to plot-twisty intrigue. Weiland (I see what you did there) is such a great villain because she fully embodies evil, but the story continually reminds the reader that taking out one head doesn’t kill the hydra of greed. Their goals and objectives will feel familiar as far off-world colonialization and power greed go.
If you’re a fan of the trope of brainwashed, genetically-enhanced spy learns to love and trust people, you are in a treat. Also, good news for people who would prefer their young adult books to be absent of a romance arc: this book has none. Its heart lies with Remy opening herself up to the possibility of another friendship and finding what trust means to her. That journey of healing and recovery really resonated with me. Though one thing I did find rad was the mention of the possibility of a romantic entanglement between Remy and Alora. This is ultimately avoided as Remy isn’t sure where she stands on love and romance, but the intensity of the friendship is palpable throughout the entire novel, especially as more people come into the fold of the brewing rebelling. The same goes with her continued relationship with Sena and mending partnership with Kiran. Having so many friendships at different phases allows for much room for nuance and development. There’s an impressive breadth of emotion presented amid the high octane escapes and fight scenes.
A science fiction adventure with even more espionage and sabotage, with great choreography and world-building the nails a bunch of tropes that make the genre so cool to begin with.
January 6, 2023
3.5 stars
Honestly, I’m not sure if this is book 2 for Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves or if Long wants it to stand on it’s own? It very well could stand on its own with very little information needed to fill gaps.
We have Remy as our protagonist. She is engineered from animal and human parts to create the best product for a corporation in control. She looks human, but her body can heal quickly, and she has better reflexes and strength than others. She also has a perfect memory which both haunts her and comes in handy. She is on the hunt for an old friend and gets herself involved in a rebellion which ends up being the fight of her life with her friends. Many adventures ensue and dangerous threats all while trying to beat the storm that is coming. The adventure is high and it was a fun ride.
“I realize this promise is more than just saving her from the immediate threat. It means I have to stop the coup.”
The book seemed overly long. While it was full of rebellion, action and strategy, I found my attention waning multiple times. I could put it down for days at a time without thinking about it. There were many times I was entertained and loved the adventure but there were many times I walked away from it without another thought. I also would have liked to experience more of the storm. It’s talked about through the entire book, this ominous storm that takes over the planet every few weeks. Landscapes are changed and people are killed. Once the storm finally came I felt I only got a glimpse. It’s in the title, give me more!
The “romance” aspect of the book really confused me. Throughout the story there were hints of something between two young women. Sometimes it played out as a friendship but many times it had me wondering if there was more? Then you add a male character in and there are hints with him too but nothing ever really happened? I’m not opposed to no romance, but I am opposed to being confused and I’m definitely confused.
“It doesn’t matter where or how you start. It only matters what you do to change things and where you end up.”
Thank you to Wednesday Books for the gifted copy!
The book releases January 17, 2023.
Content:
https://www.theopenbooks.net/2023/01/...
Honestly, I’m not sure if this is book 2 for Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves or if Long wants it to stand on it’s own? It very well could stand on its own with very little information needed to fill gaps.
We have Remy as our protagonist. She is engineered from animal and human parts to create the best product for a corporation in control. She looks human, but her body can heal quickly, and she has better reflexes and strength than others. She also has a perfect memory which both haunts her and comes in handy. She is on the hunt for an old friend and gets herself involved in a rebellion which ends up being the fight of her life with her friends. Many adventures ensue and dangerous threats all while trying to beat the storm that is coming. The adventure is high and it was a fun ride.
“I realize this promise is more than just saving her from the immediate threat. It means I have to stop the coup.”
The book seemed overly long. While it was full of rebellion, action and strategy, I found my attention waning multiple times. I could put it down for days at a time without thinking about it. There were many times I was entertained and loved the adventure but there were many times I walked away from it without another thought. I also would have liked to experience more of the storm. It’s talked about through the entire book, this ominous storm that takes over the planet every few weeks. Landscapes are changed and people are killed. Once the storm finally came I felt I only got a glimpse. It’s in the title, give me more!
The “romance” aspect of the book really confused me. Throughout the story there were hints of something between two young women. Sometimes it played out as a friendship but many times it had me wondering if there was more? Then you add a male character in and there are hints with him too but nothing ever really happened? I’m not opposed to no romance, but I am opposed to being confused and I’m definitely confused.
“It doesn’t matter where or how you start. It only matters what you do to change things and where you end up.”
Thank you to Wednesday Books for the gifted copy!
The book releases January 17, 2023.
Content:
https://www.theopenbooks.net/2023/01/...
February 5, 2023
*I received an e-arc via Netgalley from the publisher. Thank you Netgalley and Wednesday Books. All thoughts are my own*
Swift the Storm, Fierce the Flame is the sophomore follow up to Meg Long’s Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves. It is set in the same world, but on an entirely different planet. This one can be read on its own, but I highly recommend reading the first book so that you can understand the adventures that Remy has been through as this book takes place immediately afterwards. You also learn more about some of the side characters by reading the first book. I really enjoyed the world building and the fast pace of this one!
Remy Castell has been searching for her friend Alora after a mission went awry two years ago. This friend helped Remy to overcome the brainwashing she was subjected to as a genetically engineered corporate agent.
Since then, she has been following her only lead, Kiran Lore, who also happens to be her ex-partner who left her for dead when she compromised that mission. She nearly caught up to him on the planet Tundar, where she wound up meeting Sena and her wolf friend Iska. The three of them have tracked Kiran back to Maraas, the jungle planet where Remy lost everything. Nothing on Maraas is the same as it was two years ago, and Remy finds herself being asked to join a revolution. How far will she go to save her friend?
This was a roller coaster adventure that Remy takes us on! I really enjoyed learning about her past, and the planet that she once called home. I was very glad to see Sena and Iska again and have them be a part of this adventure as well. I found myself trying to figure out pieces of the plot, and actually found myself being right! I felt like I had a lot of questions still at the end of this one, and I really hope that there will be a book three.
If you read and enjoyed Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves or you like fantasy and sci-fi I recommend picking this book up!
Swift the Storm, Fierce the Flame is the sophomore follow up to Meg Long’s Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves. It is set in the same world, but on an entirely different planet. This one can be read on its own, but I highly recommend reading the first book so that you can understand the adventures that Remy has been through as this book takes place immediately afterwards. You also learn more about some of the side characters by reading the first book. I really enjoyed the world building and the fast pace of this one!
Remy Castell has been searching for her friend Alora after a mission went awry two years ago. This friend helped Remy to overcome the brainwashing she was subjected to as a genetically engineered corporate agent.
Since then, she has been following her only lead, Kiran Lore, who also happens to be her ex-partner who left her for dead when she compromised that mission. She nearly caught up to him on the planet Tundar, where she wound up meeting Sena and her wolf friend Iska. The three of them have tracked Kiran back to Maraas, the jungle planet where Remy lost everything. Nothing on Maraas is the same as it was two years ago, and Remy finds herself being asked to join a revolution. How far will she go to save her friend?
This was a roller coaster adventure that Remy takes us on! I really enjoyed learning about her past, and the planet that she once called home. I was very glad to see Sena and Iska again and have them be a part of this adventure as well. I found myself trying to figure out pieces of the plot, and actually found myself being right! I felt like I had a lot of questions still at the end of this one, and I really hope that there will be a book three.
If you read and enjoyed Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves or you like fantasy and sci-fi I recommend picking this book up!
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