4.75

I read the first book of this series on wattpad way back when and I couldn't believe it hadn't been published - I'm glad it has been.
It is a stellar story with wonderful, weird characters and a rich story.
I love Azzy - she makes an excellent protagonist.
I however disliked having Eleanor's POV - I don't understand the importance of this character?
I also feel like Kai could be fleshed out a little more.
I want to read the third installment but I cannot find it anywhere?!?

watch me chat about it here: https://youtu.be/50teun0uqCY ( )

Series Info/Source: This is the second book in the Gate Cycle. I bought a copy of this book for my Kindle.

Story (5/5): This was such a dark and beautifully written fantasy. The story was incredibly engaging and it was hard to put this book down. I loved watching Azzy navigate this dark city of people who have been turned into monsters because of the magic that assaults them. It’s gritty and gory but somehow still beautiful in a dark way.

Characters (5/5): The characters are a big part of what makes this story amazing. They are unique and interesting and even the side characters are intriguing and engaging to read about. I loved all of the characters in here, even the cruel characters were incredibly well done.

Setting (5/5): This is an amazing dark and complex world, I really love it. The tone shifts in this book from Azzy surviving a dark monster filled adventure to her journey through the beautiful and deadly city of Avergard and her time in the House of Seven Smiles. In Avergard the monsters lurking are a more polished sort and the setting here was just as fascinating as in the previous book.

Writing Style (5/5): I love Jacques' writing style so much. I can’t even really pinpoint what I love...her writing just flows so beautifully, has perfect pacing and is a complete joy to read. I loved everything about this book and the writing was just a dream to read. After reading a few lackluster books prior to this one it was such a relief and pleasure to fall back into this fantasy world. Jacques also does just enough recapping that I didn’t feel like I needed to reread the first book to understand what was happening in this one.

My Summary (5/5): Overall I adored this book. I love the world, the characters, the story, and the dark tone to it. It is beautifully written, effortless to read and impossible to put down. I would highly recommend it to those who enjoy dark fantasy. ( )