My Rating : 4.5

Thankyou Hayley Gabrielle (Author) for the review copy. All opinions are my own and not influenced in any way.
.
This book is the second installment in the Essence chronicles series and continues immediately after where things are left off in the first book. We follow our main character Abbey Shader while she explores her new identity with the help of all the essences.
.
First of all, can we just talk about how amazing the characterization of the essences are? I mean, yes they have the names as their character traits, and we already know what we can expect, but no!!! You find something new within each character that makes you just want to cuddle them. Second, this book deals with a lot o sensitive topics that takes place after an epic battle of sorts. Since this is the second book in a series, I can't discuss the details, but this book deals with topics of sexual abuse, family issues, sense of belonging and just everyday struggles of someone who basically came back from dead(according to the others). It's not explicit in details, but definitely addresses them in a good way which includes supportive family and friends.
.
Now coming to the storyline and the character development. As I mentioned before, the characters were perfect to just cuddle up and enjoy a long sip of iced tea in a beach when it's raining fire. You see what I mean? It's both amazing to want to experience and dangerous as well. That distinct difference in the base character trait and the other character every essence exhibits. I am almost positive that there is going to be some twist in the third book when it comes to one particularly proud essence and Abbey! You get to experience the past as to how the previous Medler came into existence and their story as well. It has dual time perspective and it's pretty easy to shift back and forth because the ending of each chapter gives you a sense of completion and it makes it easier to shift the timelines in your mind. The pacing of the book was really good. The only thing I have about this book is the time we spend with Zac and Abbey. When you look back to think about the plotline with them, it's mostly the emotions and a lot of uncertain decisions with them. It was slightly dry to read about and I was tiny bit disappointed by that. Other than that, I was really happy with how this book ended! I mean you can't just say something like that as the last line and just end the book!! It's too cruel !
.
Overall, this book might have a slight case of middle book syndrome, BUT I absolutely love how the storyline is progressing, and how the essences would come together! I can't wait for the next book to come out so that my confused heart can be fixed! I definitely recommend this book if you are looking for a light fantasy series with a lot of characters to love !