I was gifted a copy of this book by Saga Press. All thoughts contained in this review are my own.

Note: This is the second book in Rebecca Roanhorse’s “Between Earth & Sky” series, so this review may contain spoilers about book 1.

I really enjoyed “Black Sun” (the first book in the series) and found this book to be just as engaging and the perfect follow-up. Set in the beautifully crafted world of Tova, where gods, magic, and politics intertwine to create a vibrant and dangerous landscape, this book delves deeper into the lives of its compelling characters and the conflicts that threaten to tear their world apart. While it is a “bridge” novel, I never found myself bored (which often happens for me when reading the second book in a trilogy).

The story picks up right where the previous book left off, plunging readers back into a world on the brink of war and chaos. The eclipse that has snuffed out the sun hangs heavy over Tova, setting the stage for a battle that will shape the fate of the entire land. Amidst this turmoil, we continue the journeys of Xiala, Serapio, and Naranpa as they each grapple with their own destinies and navigate the treacherous waters of power and prophecy.

As expected, Roanhorse’s bold and immersive writing draws readers into a vividly realized world filled with magic, intrigue, and larger-than-life characters. The intricate plot weaves together multiple perspectives and storylines, offering a rich tapestry of themes and emotions that had me riveted. There’s a lot that happens between the pages, but despite focusing on several characters, I never felt lost. There’s also the perfect balance of action, romance, and tension. The depth of world-building and mythology in this book is truly impressive, creating a world that feels both familiar and utterly unique, a world you can’t help but get lost in.

The characters grapple with questions of free will, power, and the burden of prophecy, each struggling to find their place in a world that seeks to define them. Xiala, Serapio, and Naranpa are not just protagonists, they are complex, flawed, and utterly captivating individuals, each with their own desires, fears, and secrets that drive them forward. You want to root for all of them because each has such an interesting (and often tragic) backstory, but you know that everything will (and must) come to a head, and not all of them can have a happy ending.

As the stakes rise and tensions mount, Roanhorse masterfully ratchets up the suspense, leading to a climax that is both thrilling and emotionally satisfying. The action scenes are pulse-pounding, the political intrigue is gripping, and the emotional arcs of the characters are deeply moving. The final two chapters, in particular, revealed a lot, leaving me on the edge of my seat and eagerly anticipating the third and final installment.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I found it to be a stunning continuation of the Between Earth and Sky series that has quickly become a favorite of mine. With its rich world-building, compelling characters, and epic scope, this book is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy. If you’ve not yet visited the world of Tova, I highly suggest checking it out.