Nothing captures fantasy action quite like Of Sea and Smoke, the sequel by Gillian Bronte Adams. This book review was fun to write, with the story’s rich worldbuilding that took me on an exhilarating journey and lived up to the high standards set by its predecessor.

Worldbuilding

The story is rich with lore and magical creatures. An elemental horse system, paired with a rider-bonding mechanic, creates a complex magic system where each type of horse offers unique advantages and drawbacks to its rider. Adams skillfully integrates this into the character arcs, which kept me turning the pages for hours.

Characters

The characters are engaging and well-developed, featuring dynamic dialogue that enhances their relationships. The antagonists have their own flaws, which I found appealing and contributed to a well-rounded reading experience and book review.

Plot

The plot builds on its predecessor, Of Fire and Ash, exploring distant lands within Adams’ world. The protagonists experience arcs filled with both triumph and defeat, including some emotionally stirring moments. The story concludes on a strong note, leaving readers eager for the upcoming sequel.

Prose

At times, the prose can feel choppy and long-winded, making it necessary to read certain passages twice for full context. This issue is intensified during the intense action scenes, which left me confused.

Overview

Of Sea and Smoke is an enjoyable read, featuring a solid plot, a well-developed cast of characters, and a rich world of magic and lore that will captivate many readers. Some may find it necessary to read certain passages twice to grasp every detail. Overall, it lives up to the expectations set by the first book, and I look forward to the third installment.