The Fires of Vengeance was everything I wanted in a sequel to such a thrilling & captivating first epic fantasy book. The action never slowed (no second book slump here), the characters and arcs were compelling, and the world continued to grow. 

Tau continues to be a fascinating main character – he’s fierce and determined and also so brash and impulsive. He’s never flat; his goals and thought patterns continue to shift and evolve as he learns more about the bigger scope of his world.

But the supporting characters? I think they delight me more. Tau’s sword family and all of their individual motivators and quirks. Tsoria has to be one of the most interesting characters I’ve come across. I’m desperate to learn more about her - and her relationship with her sister. The one-off chapters from different points of view were both illuminating and a nice break from Tau’s intense focus. 

The fight scenes continue to blow me away. The explosive action makes you feel as though you’re right in the thick of things: smelling the blood and rage and fear, twisting and turning with swordplay, and agonizing over each loss. 

It’s a story of resistance to oppression and cycle-breaking. Of fiery, formidable determination. Of sacrifice for leadership and consequences to societies and hierarchies created through violence.

I’m so ready for book three.

CW: death, gore, blood, grief, body horror, war, death (parent/child), murder, suicide, fire, torture, colonization, classism, genocide, animal cruelty/death, medical trauma

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