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The Tribe #2
The Disappearance of Ember Crow
"However this ends, you're probably going to find out some things about me, and they're not nice things. But, Ash, even after you know, do you think you could remember the good? And whatever you end up discovering - try to think of me kindly. If you can."
Ember Crow is missing. To find her friend, Ashala Wolf must control her increasingly erratic and dangerous Sleepwalking ability and leave the Firstwood. But Ashala doesn't realise that Ember is harbouring terrible secrets and is trying to shield the Tribe and all Illegals from a devastating new threat - her own past.
Ember Crow is missing. To find her friend, Ashala Wolf must control her increasingly erratic and dangerous Sleepwalking ability and leave the Firstwood. But Ashala doesn't realise that Ember is harbouring terrible secrets and is trying to shield the Tribe and all Illegals from a devastating new threat - her own past.
444 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2013
15 people are currently reading
1057 people want to read
About the author
Ambelin Kwaymullina
47 books359 followersAmbelin Kwaymullina belongs to the Palyku people of the eastern Pilbara region of Western Australia. She is a writer, illustrator and law academic who works across a range of genres including YA, science fiction, verse and non-fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
November 24, 2016
It is always nice when the second book in a trilogy is as good as the first and this one certainly is. The author manages a very clever trick which places our hero, Ashala Wolf, as the main POV in this book like the first one, yet also introduces the voice of Ember. And what a great plot twist we get from Ember! Loved that especially.
Also loved the Aboriginal Dreaming influences, the characters new and old, the setting which is not Australia but seems very like it, the plot twists and of course the Saurs.
The author writes very well and holds the reader's attention the whole way through, aided by totally unexpected plot twists and lots of action.This is Young Adult dystopian fiction at its best. Bring on book three:)
Also loved the Aboriginal Dreaming influences, the characters new and old, the setting which is not Australia but seems very like it, the plot twists and of course the Saurs.
The author writes very well and holds the reader's attention the whole way through, aided by totally unexpected plot twists and lots of action.This is Young Adult dystopian fiction at its best. Bring on book three:)
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September 9, 2013Well, it’s pointless for me to rate this; obviously I love the book, it would be a terrible thing to pour your heart and soul into a novel you hated. As I write these words, I have just completed the final, absolutely-the-last, cannot-change-another-word edits to the manuscript.
What can I say about The Disappearance of Ember Crow? As with book 1 of the Tribe series, it’s very hard to say anything without giving away a major twist. But for everyone who enjoyed the first book, here are three favourite things about the sequel:
Favourite new ability: ooo, sorry, spoiler, can’t say exactly what it is (but it’s Jules’ ability).
Favourite moment: every moment where there’s a big revelation (and there’s a lot of them). I always knew what was coming, but even as I was writing those moments a part of me was thinking “I can’t believe it! I didn’t see that coming!”
Favourite new character: Leo. Not saying any more. Pretty sure you’ll love him too, everyone who’s read it does.
Thanks to everyone who’s already put this on their ‘to-read’ list and I hope you enjoy it!
☺
Ambelin
What can I say about The Disappearance of Ember Crow? As with book 1 of the Tribe series, it’s very hard to say anything without giving away a major twist. But for everyone who enjoyed the first book, here are three favourite things about the sequel:
Favourite new ability: ooo, sorry, spoiler, can’t say exactly what it is (but it’s Jules’ ability).
Favourite moment: every moment where there’s a big revelation (and there’s a lot of them). I always knew what was coming, but even as I was writing those moments a part of me was thinking “I can’t believe it! I didn’t see that coming!”
Favourite new character: Leo. Not saying any more. Pretty sure you’ll love him too, everyone who’s read it does.
Thanks to everyone who’s already put this on their ‘to-read’ list and I hope you enjoy it!
☺
Ambelin
February 28, 2019
3.5 stars. Enjoyable second book in The Tribe series. Ember's missing, and it's up to Ashala to find her and bring her back home.
I like the relationships amongst the characters, and how Ashala is still recovering from her experiences in book one. I also like how aboriginal stories underpin these Tribe stories.
The revelations here about certain characters were not what I was expecting; I like that I was surprised, and I like how the plot was again fast-paced. The ending sets up an interesting situation for Ashala and The Tribe; I'm curious to see how it resolves in book three.
I like the relationships amongst the characters, and how Ashala is still recovering from her experiences in book one. I also like how aboriginal stories underpin these Tribe stories.
The revelations here about certain characters were not what I was expecting; I like that I was surprised, and I like how the plot was again fast-paced. The ending sets up an interesting situation for Ashala and The Tribe; I'm curious to see how it resolves in book three.
March 4, 2019
4.25*
Second book of the Tribe trilogy. I’m not too sure what I was expecting but Kwaymullina totally surprised me with the direction she chose. And I loved it!!!
The narrative picks up a few months after the events of the first book, and we find Ashala still coming to terms with them, and being told that Ember has disappeared. Naturally, she decides to do anything in order to find her friend and bring her back to safety. In the course of this however, many discoveries are made, including some about the Accords Treaty and the oppression of Illegals.
Throughout the novel, we see everything from Ashala’s point of view, but, through the use of memory stones, the author also allows other voices to come to the fore. It is a ‘trick' that works well, adding layers to the characters as well as the world they inhabit, sometimes completely modifying our understanding. The Australian aboriginal ‘feel', which was one of my favourite elements, is still present but Kwaymullina adds to it, showing us different habitats in this new world, and somehow combining new with the old. Although the beginning was a little slow, it soon picked up. I was already invested in these protagonists, and yet, with the new angle introduced here, I am even more interested in what happens next.
Second book of the Tribe trilogy. I’m not too sure what I was expecting but Kwaymullina totally surprised me with the direction she chose. And I loved it!!!
The narrative picks up a few months after the events of the first book, and we find Ashala still coming to terms with them, and being told that Ember has disappeared. Naturally, she decides to do anything in order to find her friend and bring her back to safety. In the course of this however, many discoveries are made, including some about the Accords Treaty and the oppression of Illegals.
Throughout the novel, we see everything from Ashala’s point of view, but, through the use of memory stones, the author also allows other voices to come to the fore. It is a ‘trick' that works well, adding layers to the characters as well as the world they inhabit, sometimes completely modifying our understanding. The Australian aboriginal ‘feel', which was one of my favourite elements, is still present but Kwaymullina adds to it, showing us different habitats in this new world, and somehow combining new with the old. Although the beginning was a little slow, it soon picked up. I was already invested in these protagonists, and yet, with the new angle introduced here, I am even more interested in what happens next.
February 24, 2019
3.5 stars
A good second entry in The Tribe series that, quite honestly, went in a direction I never expected. I'm not often surprised like that, so I found it refreshing.
The writing continues to be clean and straightforward, making for a quick read. This is solidly situated as a YA book, and well suited for readers who are looking for an interesting story without excessively graphic elements.
[S]ometimes there's not a lot of...of honour, in the things we do to survive. But survival isn't life. It's just existence.
A good second entry in The Tribe series that, quite honestly, went in a direction I never expected. I'm not often surprised like that, so I found it refreshing.
The writing continues to be clean and straightforward, making for a quick read. This is solidly situated as a YA book, and well suited for readers who are looking for an interesting story without excessively graphic elements.
[S]ometimes there's not a lot of...of honour, in the things we do to survive. But survival isn't life. It's just existence.
March 3, 2019
Ashala is avoiding the trauma of what happened at the end of the first book when her friends find her and let her know that Ember is missing. What follows allows Ember to address her problems while learning much more about her friend and the true source of the Accords and the brutal oppression of illegals.
There weren't quite so many parallels between real world politics and this created world, but a lot on what a Tribe really means and the healing power of acceptance, forgiveness and interdependent community.
A solid second book in this well written series.
There weren't quite so many parallels between real world politics and this created world, but a lot on what a Tribe really means and the healing power of acceptance, forgiveness and interdependent community.
A solid second book in this well written series.
August 10, 2016
All is not well with the Tribe. They may have had a triumph at Detention Centre 3 but life is far from peaceful for the residents in the Firstwood. Ashala Wolf has gone and embraced her wolf and is running with the pack. Ember Crow went to Gull City months ago and never returned – leaving Ashala only a dog and a memory to reassure her that Ember is okay. Not one to stand back when her tribe family are in danger, Ashala starts digging into Ember’s disappearance to try and find her best friend. Things come out that make Ember’s cryptic leaving and parting message seem even more complicated and dangerous than Ashala ever considered.
Starting a few months after the end of The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf, this second book of the Tribe series has Ashala still feeling the effects from her actions at the end of the first book. She can’t trust her dreams, her ability or her feelings for her loved ones. Feeling it’s safer to run with the Pack Master, Ashala abandons her human self and becomes the wolf to protect the Tribe – from herself. Her relationship with Connor is on edge after Ashala doesn’t believe that she is good for him.
Ashala’s grandfather, the Serpent, who lives beneath the lake, is full of obscure and confusing advice wanting Ashala to “beware the angels“.Nothing is making sense and Ashala’s need to keep her tribe safe may be conflicting with what’s best for them.
I enjoy Ambelin’s writing. She’s brutal on her characters – we get to see the best and worst from them and I like them more for it. Ashala is flawed and doesn’t always know what’s best for everyone but she’s a good leader because she accepts her faults and learns from her mistakes. She loves fiercely with her whole being and is unapologetic about always thinking the best of her tribe and family. Ember is someone I was fascinated by after the first book and it was great to see more about her and her ability through this book. There are some incredible new characters introduced in this novel (like Jules!) and many familiar faces popping up again.
Whereas the first book took place over a few days – not including memories – The Disappearance of Ember Crow is setting the series up for the long game. Months pass and we get to see a lot of character development. People are growing and changing as the world takes its toll and as relationships mature. The Firstwood is a character in itself with the beauty and majesty of the forest evident throughout the novel.
This series is quickly becoming a favourite of mine and both The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf and The Disappearance of Ember Crow have been some of my favourite reads this year. The writing is vivid and beautiful, the story is creative and brilliantly executed. I love that the romance is there but not distracting from the plot nor is it too intense. I will definitely be continuing this series when the third book, The Foretelling of Georgia Spider, is released in the future.
Starting a few months after the end of The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf, this second book of the Tribe series has Ashala still feeling the effects from her actions at the end of the first book. She can’t trust her dreams, her ability or her feelings for her loved ones. Feeling it’s safer to run with the Pack Master, Ashala abandons her human self and becomes the wolf to protect the Tribe – from herself. Her relationship with Connor is on edge after Ashala doesn’t believe that she is good for him.
Ashala’s grandfather, the Serpent, who lives beneath the lake, is full of obscure and confusing advice wanting Ashala to “beware the angels“.Nothing is making sense and Ashala’s need to keep her tribe safe may be conflicting with what’s best for them.
I enjoy Ambelin’s writing. She’s brutal on her characters – we get to see the best and worst from them and I like them more for it. Ashala is flawed and doesn’t always know what’s best for everyone but she’s a good leader because she accepts her faults and learns from her mistakes. She loves fiercely with her whole being and is unapologetic about always thinking the best of her tribe and family. Ember is someone I was fascinated by after the first book and it was great to see more about her and her ability through this book. There are some incredible new characters introduced in this novel (like Jules!) and many familiar faces popping up again.
Whereas the first book took place over a few days – not including memories – The Disappearance of Ember Crow is setting the series up for the long game. Months pass and we get to see a lot of character development. People are growing and changing as the world takes its toll and as relationships mature. The Firstwood is a character in itself with the beauty and majesty of the forest evident throughout the novel.
This series is quickly becoming a favourite of mine and both The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf and The Disappearance of Ember Crow have been some of my favourite reads this year. The writing is vivid and beautiful, the story is creative and brilliantly executed. I love that the romance is there but not distracting from the plot nor is it too intense. I will definitely be continuing this series when the third book, The Foretelling of Georgia Spider, is released in the future.
January 21, 2014
I think that this is probably my favourite dystopian series, and a large part of that is because it doesn't feel like just another version of the Hunger Games. It's a little more Obernewtyn-esque if comparisons must be made, but it is a series with its own voice, and own flair, and a storyline that is gorgeously twisted with Dreamtime references and fresh, original ideas.
Do yourself a favour and read this series.
Do yourself a favour and read this series.
August 16, 2017
continues with the same level of action, suspense, depth, and nuance as book 1 while introducing new characters, conflicts, and twists. *runs to read book 3/the conclusion*
TWs: ableist language used to describe antagonists :/
TWs: ableist language used to describe antagonists :/
July 30, 2014
Hard to believe the second book in this series could be as compelling as the first, but it absolutely is.
November 19, 2013
The Tribe is calling Ashala Wolf home. For weeks now they have let her live wild, away from the people she cares for and the man she loves . . . the man she hurt. But now one of The Tribe is missing, and they need to bring Ashala back to her Firstwood before she goes anymore yellow-eyed.
Ember Crow is missing. Weeks ago she went to Gull City, looking for someone, and she hasn’t been back since. But she’s left Ashala a cryptic memory stone message that makes her think Ember isn’t missing, so much as run away. But why? Why does Ember ask Ashala not to hate her, not to think poorly of her once she knows the truth of who she is.
As Ashala starts digging into Ember’s disappearance, with the help of her beloved Connor and others from The Tribe, Ashala starts to understand how complicated Ember’s leaving was . . . and that she had very good reason to fear that those she has come to call her family, will turn against her.
‘The Disappearance of Ember Crow’ is the much-anticipated second book in Ambelin Kwaymullina’s ‘The Tribe’ young adult Australian Dystopian series.
I had the good fortune of meeting up with Ambelin at the Melbourne Writers Festival back in September this year, and even got to interview her for the MWF blog. At the time she teased me with hints and breadcrumbs about what I could expect from Ember’s book; at the time she kept promising many “aha!” moments . . . but now that I’m on the other side of Book #2, I can safely say that Ambelin was being modest. ‘The Disappearance of Ember Crow’ is basically one great, big juicy revelatory novel full of delicious twists, turns and you-never-saw-coming surprises. I loved it!
The book begins a few months after the events of ‘The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf’, and the tribe is in tumult. Still reeling from having been bought back from the dead, Connor is dealing with feeling both connected and not to the world and people around him. Meanwhile, Ashala’s Sleepwalking ability has become increasingly erratic – she has the ability to experience everything as part of a vivid dream, but whatever changes in the dream happen in the world around her – and after hurting Connor, Ashala banished herself to deep within Firstwood to live with a pack of real wolves. While away Ember Crow, Ashala’s first member of The Tribe, travelled to Gull City but hasn’t been seen since.
Not only is Ashala worried about a cryptic stone message Ember left for her (asking that Ashala not come looking for her, or hate her when she starts learning the truth. . . ) but Ashala’s Grandfather, The Serpent, has a dire warning for her;
Some truths cannot be told. They can only be discovered.
Even more cryptic than Ember’s warning, is Grandfather’s to, “Beware the angels.”
As Ashala, Connor and the Tribe start digging into Ember’s disappearance, they discover that connected to her story is Alexander Hoffman, the long-dead man who predicted The Reckoning and helped rebuild in the days following that catastrophe . . .
It often happens that the second book of a series doesn’t live up to the hype and appeal of the first. Storylines sag, plotting feels like filler and characters who initially dazzled leave us scratching our heads and wondering, “why?” But that is so far from the case with ‘The Disappearance of Ember Crow’. In this second book Ambelin Kwaymullina expands ‘The Tribe’ universe, with characters travelling beyond Firstwood to places like Gull and Spinifex City. She also introduces intriguing new characters, my favourite of which had to be Jules who has an ability that will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up (but to mention it here would be a cruel spoiler). Part of the reason that this second book is such a fabulous follow-up, is thanks to ‘The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf’ having had such a tightly-wound storyline that mostly took place inside Detention Centre 3 and focused entirely on Ashala during her captivity. That first book left plenty of room for Ambelin to set up her long-game in this second outing, beyond just The Tribe and the small world of Firstwood. Indeed, in ‘Ember Crow’ we get Ashala’s perspective, but also Ember’s . . . and there’s a focus on connectedness, how The Tribe is being pulled into wider schemes and problems that affect The Balance and indeed, the entire world.
Without a doubt, ‘The Disappearance of Ember Crow’ is a fantastic instalment in what is fast becoming my favourite new Aussie YA series. Here is a book that is twisting and compelling, beautifully plotted for maximum sucker-punching, and in which all the characters we met and fell for in ‘Ashala Wolf’ are being teased out with the promise of further, tricky exploration. I can’t wait for third and fourth books, ‘The Foretelling of Georgia Spider’ and ‘The Execution of Neville Rose’.
And I love this series for the layers and otherworldly appeal Ambelin Kwaymullina crafts. At the back of the book Ambelin goes into an exploration on where she gets her ideas from – as an Aboriginal writer who is greatly influenced by the stories of her ancestors, and her great-grandmother who wisely described Australia as “a place where everything lives and nothing dies.”
The Serpent. My Serpent. The giant snake who lived in the lake and was my many-times grandfather. In the old world, the one that had been destroyed by the Reckoning, the Serpent had created my people, my “race”. It was hard to believe that humans used to care about things like different-shaped eyes, or different coloured skin. Now all that mattered was the line between Citizen, Exempt and Illegal.
There’s real beauty in this series that is at once a fantastically fun Aussie Dystopian, but on the other hand draws on some of Australia’s darkest histories and the ancient storytelling of its indigenous people. Much like The Balance itself, Kwaymullina’s YA series is a great journey of interconnectedness and multi-layered symbolism and storytelling that I can’t recommend enough. Brilliant.
Ember Crow is missing. Weeks ago she went to Gull City, looking for someone, and she hasn’t been back since. But she’s left Ashala a cryptic memory stone message that makes her think Ember isn’t missing, so much as run away. But why? Why does Ember ask Ashala not to hate her, not to think poorly of her once she knows the truth of who she is.
As Ashala starts digging into Ember’s disappearance, with the help of her beloved Connor and others from The Tribe, Ashala starts to understand how complicated Ember’s leaving was . . . and that she had very good reason to fear that those she has come to call her family, will turn against her.
‘The Disappearance of Ember Crow’ is the much-anticipated second book in Ambelin Kwaymullina’s ‘The Tribe’ young adult Australian Dystopian series.
I had the good fortune of meeting up with Ambelin at the Melbourne Writers Festival back in September this year, and even got to interview her for the MWF blog. At the time she teased me with hints and breadcrumbs about what I could expect from Ember’s book; at the time she kept promising many “aha!” moments . . . but now that I’m on the other side of Book #2, I can safely say that Ambelin was being modest. ‘The Disappearance of Ember Crow’ is basically one great, big juicy revelatory novel full of delicious twists, turns and you-never-saw-coming surprises. I loved it!
The book begins a few months after the events of ‘The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf’, and the tribe is in tumult. Still reeling from having been bought back from the dead, Connor is dealing with feeling both connected and not to the world and people around him. Meanwhile, Ashala’s Sleepwalking ability has become increasingly erratic – she has the ability to experience everything as part of a vivid dream, but whatever changes in the dream happen in the world around her – and after hurting Connor, Ashala banished herself to deep within Firstwood to live with a pack of real wolves. While away Ember Crow, Ashala’s first member of The Tribe, travelled to Gull City but hasn’t been seen since.
Not only is Ashala worried about a cryptic stone message Ember left for her (asking that Ashala not come looking for her, or hate her when she starts learning the truth. . . ) but Ashala’s Grandfather, The Serpent, has a dire warning for her;
Some truths cannot be told. They can only be discovered.
Even more cryptic than Ember’s warning, is Grandfather’s to, “Beware the angels.”
As Ashala, Connor and the Tribe start digging into Ember’s disappearance, they discover that connected to her story is Alexander Hoffman, the long-dead man who predicted The Reckoning and helped rebuild in the days following that catastrophe . . .
It often happens that the second book of a series doesn’t live up to the hype and appeal of the first. Storylines sag, plotting feels like filler and characters who initially dazzled leave us scratching our heads and wondering, “why?” But that is so far from the case with ‘The Disappearance of Ember Crow’. In this second book Ambelin Kwaymullina expands ‘The Tribe’ universe, with characters travelling beyond Firstwood to places like Gull and Spinifex City. She also introduces intriguing new characters, my favourite of which had to be Jules who has an ability that will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up (but to mention it here would be a cruel spoiler). Part of the reason that this second book is such a fabulous follow-up, is thanks to ‘The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf’ having had such a tightly-wound storyline that mostly took place inside Detention Centre 3 and focused entirely on Ashala during her captivity. That first book left plenty of room for Ambelin to set up her long-game in this second outing, beyond just The Tribe and the small world of Firstwood. Indeed, in ‘Ember Crow’ we get Ashala’s perspective, but also Ember’s . . . and there’s a focus on connectedness, how The Tribe is being pulled into wider schemes and problems that affect The Balance and indeed, the entire world.
Without a doubt, ‘The Disappearance of Ember Crow’ is a fantastic instalment in what is fast becoming my favourite new Aussie YA series. Here is a book that is twisting and compelling, beautifully plotted for maximum sucker-punching, and in which all the characters we met and fell for in ‘Ashala Wolf’ are being teased out with the promise of further, tricky exploration. I can’t wait for third and fourth books, ‘The Foretelling of Georgia Spider’ and ‘The Execution of Neville Rose’.
And I love this series for the layers and otherworldly appeal Ambelin Kwaymullina crafts. At the back of the book Ambelin goes into an exploration on where she gets her ideas from – as an Aboriginal writer who is greatly influenced by the stories of her ancestors, and her great-grandmother who wisely described Australia as “a place where everything lives and nothing dies.”
The Serpent. My Serpent. The giant snake who lived in the lake and was my many-times grandfather. In the old world, the one that had been destroyed by the Reckoning, the Serpent had created my people, my “race”. It was hard to believe that humans used to care about things like different-shaped eyes, or different coloured skin. Now all that mattered was the line between Citizen, Exempt and Illegal.
There’s real beauty in this series that is at once a fantastically fun Aussie Dystopian, but on the other hand draws on some of Australia’s darkest histories and the ancient storytelling of its indigenous people. Much like The Balance itself, Kwaymullina’s YA series is a great journey of interconnectedness and multi-layered symbolism and storytelling that I can’t recommend enough. Brilliant.
February 28, 2019
Solid second book in the series. The plot keeps moving along which makes for a fast read.
This is a good YA which still manages to surprise.
This is a good YA which still manages to surprise.
December 24, 2018
Better than the first, the world became more fleshed out and intriguing, excited for what happens next 😁
March 29, 2022
I have to give Ambelin Kwaymullina credit for some pretty solid plot twists in this installment. Going to take a break before diving into the final book
December 16, 2018
3.5 stars. Again, endearing characters, some good twists, creative. The cliche of the romance lets these down a bit, but I recommend this series.
December 23, 2015
The Tribe is my new favourite series, and I am eagerly, impatiently awaiting the next two instalments. Having devoured the first,
The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf
, in January this year, I quickly went out to get a copy of the second book, which did not disappoint in the slightest.
Following on from the events of the first book, the Tribe is somewhat more structured, involved and purposeful - maybe it's because I'm currently reading the final Obernewtyn book, but there are similarities between the two series, which only makes me cleave to this one all the more. They are young, they have unique abilities, and they have a deep and profound love and respect for the natural world - and this is a strong component of both the world-building and the Indigenous culture from which Kwaymullina comes.
Ember Crow is Ashala Wolf's best friend and, in effect, second in command of the Tribe. Now, suddenly, she is missing, and as Ashala and the Tribe track her down they learn incredible secrets about Ember and the 'family' she comes from, secrets that open up a whole new dimension to this post-apocalyptic world still in recovery, and reveal a threat they hadn't known existed.
I honestly couldn't recommend this series highly enough. It is riveting, engrossing, exciting, surprising, imaginative, intelligent and captivating. Can I squeeze any more adjectives into that sentence? I love the concept, I love the Aboriginal aspects and I love the world-building, but I especially love the characters, who are becoming as dear to me as the Obernewtyn cast is. Speaking of, it is a relief to have another excellent post-apocalyptic fantasy series like this one to go one with, now that the Obernewtyn Chronicles is finally complete. The Tribe books are already on my "I need to re-read ASAP" list, and I'm on tenterhooks waiting for the next two.
Following on from the events of the first book, the Tribe is somewhat more structured, involved and purposeful - maybe it's because I'm currently reading the final Obernewtyn book, but there are similarities between the two series, which only makes me cleave to this one all the more. They are young, they have unique abilities, and they have a deep and profound love and respect for the natural world - and this is a strong component of both the world-building and the Indigenous culture from which Kwaymullina comes.
Ember Crow is Ashala Wolf's best friend and, in effect, second in command of the Tribe. Now, suddenly, she is missing, and as Ashala and the Tribe track her down they learn incredible secrets about Ember and the 'family' she comes from, secrets that open up a whole new dimension to this post-apocalyptic world still in recovery, and reveal a threat they hadn't known existed.
I honestly couldn't recommend this series highly enough. It is riveting, engrossing, exciting, surprising, imaginative, intelligent and captivating. Can I squeeze any more adjectives into that sentence? I love the concept, I love the Aboriginal aspects and I love the world-building, but I especially love the characters, who are becoming as dear to me as the Obernewtyn cast is. Speaking of, it is a relief to have another excellent post-apocalyptic fantasy series like this one to go one with, now that the Obernewtyn Chronicles is finally complete. The Tribe books are already on my "I need to re-read ASAP" list, and I'm on tenterhooks waiting for the next two.
April 19, 2016
Based on the cover, I was fully expecting that Ember would be the narrator of this one. But no! Ashala continues to narrate, which is awesome because a) I really like Ashala's character, and b) there are nowhere near enough books with Aboriginal protagonists, especially books that AREN'T contemporary. HURRAH FOR A DYSTOPIAN SERIES WITH AN INDIGENOUS PROTAGONIST!!
Anyway. I love this world a lot. The saurs are fabulous, the abilities of the various characters are really well done, and I love how each of the specific areas and cities is based around an Australian landscape, even though Kwaymullina very clearly states that the book isn't set in Australia. There's a lot about Indigenous society and culture and connection to country woven through the story, and the hints of Aboriginal mythology that appear throughout are great.
This is very much a middle book in that it contains a lot of new information with very few answers, as well as a lot of build up with only a moderate amount of payoff. But it was incredibly well done, the characters are great, and I'm really glad I already have the third book sitting on my shelf waiting to be picked up.
Anyway. I love this world a lot. The saurs are fabulous, the abilities of the various characters are really well done, and I love how each of the specific areas and cities is based around an Australian landscape, even though Kwaymullina very clearly states that the book isn't set in Australia. There's a lot about Indigenous society and culture and connection to country woven through the story, and the hints of Aboriginal mythology that appear throughout are great.
This is very much a middle book in that it contains a lot of new information with very few answers, as well as a lot of build up with only a moderate amount of payoff. But it was incredibly well done, the characters are great, and I'm really glad I already have the third book sitting on my shelf waiting to be picked up.
September 22, 2014
4.5, maybe...
Fantastic read. What I think is really spectacular about these books thus far is how Ambelin Kwaymullina ... I don't know how to say this ... but she sort of incorporates so much into this world. I mean, you've got Ember's side story and what she is... then the conspiracy of her family as a whole... Then what goes on within the tribe, and in Gull City. Just so many circles and so much history and so many settings... It's so rich. And NOT overloaded. And don't get me started on the characters.
My only point-five reduction is that it was starting to get a leetle cheesy. This is going to sound nasty, but... I feel like too many characters were saved. A little more death could have balanced it out (haha, see what I did there?).
Still, awesome stuff, and I honestly can't wait to see what comes next... ♥
Fantastic read. What I think is really spectacular about these books thus far is how Ambelin Kwaymullina ... I don't know how to say this ... but she sort of incorporates so much into this world. I mean, you've got Ember's side story and what she is... then the conspiracy of her family as a whole... Then what goes on within the tribe, and in Gull City. Just so many circles and so much history and so many settings... It's so rich. And NOT overloaded. And don't get me started on the characters.
My only point-five reduction is that it was starting to get a leetle cheesy. This is going to sound nasty, but... I feel like too many characters were saved. A little more death could have balanced it out (haha, see what I did there?).
Still, awesome stuff, and I honestly can't wait to see what comes next... ♥
September 23, 2015
I'm so sad that I'm not enjoying this series :(
__________________________________________
So we begin THE DISAPPEARANCE OF EMBER CROW with (you guessed it!) Ember Crow disappearing. Ashala kind of banishes herself from the Tribe because of her Sleepwalking ability and how she’s worried about hurting people.
The universe of the Firstwood is extended in this sequel, leading us to other places like Spinifex City. But at the same time, I felt (again) disconnected. We have Ashala’s viewpoint, but Ember’s as well, and for me they didn’t really merge. That’s always the trouble with dual-POV.
Again, though, what makes it unique is the layer of ancient Australian storytelling and myths. It has all this symbolism of needing the world to be in the Balance, and for things to be harmonious. I did really like that aspect of it.
__________________________________________
So we begin THE DISAPPEARANCE OF EMBER CROW with (you guessed it!) Ember Crow disappearing. Ashala kind of banishes herself from the Tribe because of her Sleepwalking ability and how she’s worried about hurting people.
The universe of the Firstwood is extended in this sequel, leading us to other places like Spinifex City. But at the same time, I felt (again) disconnected. We have Ashala’s viewpoint, but Ember’s as well, and for me they didn’t really merge. That’s always the trouble with dual-POV.
Again, though, what makes it unique is the layer of ancient Australian storytelling and myths. It has all this symbolism of needing the world to be in the Balance, and for things to be harmonious. I did really like that aspect of it.
February 20, 2016
Loved, loved, loved this book. It's not often that the second book in a series outshines the first, but as we already know from The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf, Ambelin Kwaymullina is a master of plotting.
In The Disappearance of Ember Crow there is more plot twists, more action, new characters with new powers, and greater insight into and exploration of this post-apocalyptic world and the characters that inhabit it.
This series has everything I want in a dystopian fiction - beautiful writing, fresh plot, detailed world-building, great female characters, people of colour, a strong sense of place, a strong sense of equality, a sense of fun, a sense of magic, an element of mythology, and a touch of sci-fi.
In The Disappearance of Ember Crow there is more plot twists, more action, new characters with new powers, and greater insight into and exploration of this post-apocalyptic world and the characters that inhabit it.
This series has everything I want in a dystopian fiction - beautiful writing, fresh plot, detailed world-building, great female characters, people of colour, a strong sense of place, a strong sense of equality, a sense of fun, a sense of magic, an element of mythology, and a touch of sci-fi.
January 20, 2014
Even better than the first,the mythology woven into the story is beautiful. Those who loved the first book, will definitely love this one, but I think it will be those who read the trilogy together who will enjoy it the most.
The telling of different perspectives through memories is one of the most remarkable aspects of the writing, engaging the reader's imagination and creating connections between reader and story.
A very enjoyable read for ages 13+
The telling of different perspectives through memories is one of the most remarkable aspects of the writing, engaging the reader's imagination and creating connections between reader and story.
A very enjoyable read for ages 13+
December 19, 2013
Loved it. Brilliantly crafted second instalment to The Tribe series. We learn more about the characters we love, meet some new ones and see just how clever Ambelin Kwaymullina is when it comes to plotting and world building. Fresh and original dystopia with an evocative Dreamtime twist. Seriously good.
January 8, 2018
The Disappearance of Ember Crow is every bit as gorgeous, twisty, and utterly unlike my preconceptions of YA post-apocalyptic dystopian fiction as the first book in the series. Ambelin Kwaymullina's language is so pretty. Enjoying this series is like being tapped on the shoulder and reminded, “Hey, humans also do this.”
January 16, 2014
I enjoyed this very much. It doesn't suffer from "second book syndrome" and the heroine isn't perfect. Read the first if you haven't, and don't worry about the quality of the sequel if you have read it!
July 16, 2016
Also posted on my blog Got My Book.
The previous book was a YA Post-Apocalyptic Paranormal Dystopia. This one has something for the SF lover as well.
BOOK DETAILS:
The Disappearance of Ember Crow by Ambelin Kwaymullina, read by Cara Gee, published by Candlewick on Brilliance Audio (2016) / Length: 9 hrs 35 min
SERIES INFO:
This is Book #2 of 3 in "The Tribe" trilogy. Book #3, The Foretelling of Georgie Spider, has already been published in Australia, but no U.S. publication date has yet been announced.
**This review contains spoilers for the previous book.**
SUMMARY:
I didn't rate this one as high as the previous one (which got 5*) because I felt like it took a while to get started. (And possibly because I was a bit sad to see conflict between Ashala & Connor, although I believe it was realistic and well handled.)
I liked the cover of this one better than the last one, although the just showing one eye theme means we don't get to see Ember's mismatched eyes.
This is another instance in which Audible placed a YA books in the 11-13 age category. I'm not sure what's up with that.
I tagged this one with Diversity, since it features an Australian Aboriginal character & beliefs and is written by an #ownvoices author.
CHARACTERS:
Ashala & Connor: There were so many things I wanted to say about this relationship in my review of the first book, but couldn't since they were all spoilers. One of those things was the fact that this was a case of semi-Instalove that I didn't mind. I believe that Connor was already half in love with Ashala before they ever met, due to having carefully studied her file. Then when Ashala actually shared his memories, she developed feelings for him. Her acceptance of him into the Tribe in such an intimate way (being willing to share a memory of her own), sealed it for him. (Going back and finding the evidence of their true relationship is a joy.)
In this book, Connor is growing and changing; and like any good partner, he helps Ashala do so as well. Although I hate to see conflict, I love the way Connor stands up for what he needs and for equality of expectations & risk. (I'm not one of those people who thinks that true love means doing anything for and taking anything from the other person. A healthy relationship requires communication and boundaries, and we get to see that here.)
Ember Crow: The fact that Ember has secrets is a central point of the book, so I don't think it is a spoiler to say I could never have seen this twist coming when I started, wow. Yet it all remains consistent with what has come before.
Georgie & Daniel - I am guessing that they are going to become a couple in the next book. It will be nice to learn more about 2 people who have been so important to the survival of the Tribe. / Jules - I am anticipating seeing more of him and how he might change & grow in the next book.
WORLDBUILDING:
We get to see more of the world in this one. Ember visits Fern City, which is a city constantly battling being taken over by the jungle. And a good portion of the book takes place in Spinifex City, where everyone is obsessed with a local drink but otherwise very laid back for this world. We also learn some very important things about about how the current dystopian state of their society developed.
PLOT:
As I said in the Summary, I felt like this one got off to a bit of a slow start. It wasn't until Ashala got a message that there was finally news from Ember that things started to take off.
Flashbacks through shared memories continue to be an important part of the narrative, and so this book isn't straightforward or chronological.
The previous book ended with the feeling that, although they hadn't changed the world, they had reached a stopping point. This one has a cliffhanger. The ending is nice, and some personal stuff is resolved, but there is a lot hanging over their head.
HIGHLIGHTS / CAUTIONS:
--Nicky
--Although it isn't pointed out directly, there were a couple of instances where I felt like Ember was emulating Ashala's best qualities
--Jeremy Duoro (a normal human fighting for Illegals' rights) - I didn't get much of a feel for him in the last book, but the scenes related to him in this one were some of the best.
OTHER CAUTIONS(?): There are some hints of intimacy between certain characters. / One character is still mourning his deceased male lover.
NARRATION:
Note: I am not sure how fair a review of the narrator this is. I really liked Candice Moll's narration of the first book, especially the Australian accent. Plus I very rarely like it when they change narrators mid-way. It would have been different if the majority of the book had been from Ember's POV, thus making it logical to have a different reader. But the central character is still Ashala.
Character voices differentiated = Only "sort of" / Opposite sex voices acceptable = just barely, I wasn't fond of Connor's voice at all / Accents good = Not applicable / Phrasing, Pacing & Pronunciation = Good / Emoting = Good / Speed = Slow; I listened on 1.5 instead of my usual 1.25
The previous book was a YA Post-Apocalyptic Paranormal Dystopia. This one has something for the SF lover as well.
BOOK DETAILS:
The Disappearance of Ember Crow by Ambelin Kwaymullina, read by Cara Gee, published by Candlewick on Brilliance Audio (2016) / Length: 9 hrs 35 min
SERIES INFO:
This is Book #2 of 3 in "The Tribe" trilogy. Book #3, The Foretelling of Georgie Spider, has already been published in Australia, but no U.S. publication date has yet been announced.
**This review contains spoilers for the previous book.**
SUMMARY:
I didn't rate this one as high as the previous one (which got 5*) because I felt like it took a while to get started. (And possibly because I was a bit sad to see conflict between Ashala & Connor, although I believe it was realistic and well handled.)
I liked the cover of this one better than the last one, although the just showing one eye theme means we don't get to see Ember's mismatched eyes.
This is another instance in which Audible placed a YA books in the 11-13 age category. I'm not sure what's up with that.
I tagged this one with Diversity, since it features an Australian Aboriginal character & beliefs and is written by an #ownvoices author.
CHARACTERS:
Ashala & Connor: There were so many things I wanted to say about this relationship in my review of the first book, but couldn't since they were all spoilers. One of those things was the fact that this was a case of semi-Instalove that I didn't mind. I believe that Connor was already half in love with Ashala before they ever met, due to having carefully studied her file. Then when Ashala actually shared his memories, she developed feelings for him. Her acceptance of him into the Tribe in such an intimate way (being willing to share a memory of her own), sealed it for him. (Going back and finding the evidence of their true relationship is a joy.)
In this book, Connor is growing and changing; and like any good partner, he helps Ashala do so as well. Although I hate to see conflict, I love the way Connor stands up for what he needs and for equality of expectations & risk. (I'm not one of those people who thinks that true love means doing anything for and taking anything from the other person. A healthy relationship requires communication and boundaries, and we get to see that here.)
Ember Crow: The fact that Ember has secrets is a central point of the book, so I don't think it is a spoiler to say I could never have seen this twist coming when I started, wow. Yet it all remains consistent with what has come before.
Georgie & Daniel - I am guessing that they are going to become a couple in the next book. It will be nice to learn more about 2 people who have been so important to the survival of the Tribe. / Jules - I am anticipating seeing more of him and how he might change & grow in the next book.
WORLDBUILDING:
We get to see more of the world in this one. Ember visits Fern City, which is a city constantly battling being taken over by the jungle. And a good portion of the book takes place in Spinifex City, where everyone is obsessed with a local drink but otherwise very laid back for this world. We also learn some very important things about about how the current dystopian state of their society developed.
PLOT:
As I said in the Summary, I felt like this one got off to a bit of a slow start. It wasn't until Ashala got a message that there was finally news from Ember that things started to take off.
Flashbacks through shared memories continue to be an important part of the narrative, and so this book isn't straightforward or chronological.
The previous book ended with the feeling that, although they hadn't changed the world, they had reached a stopping point. This one has a cliffhanger. The ending is nice, and some personal stuff is resolved, but there is a lot hanging over their head.
HIGHLIGHTS / CAUTIONS:
--Nicky
--Although it isn't pointed out directly, there were a couple of instances where I felt like Ember was emulating Ashala's best qualities
--Jeremy Duoro (a normal human fighting for Illegals' rights) - I didn't get much of a feel for him in the last book, but the scenes related to him in this one were some of the best.
OTHER CAUTIONS(?): There are some hints of intimacy between certain characters. / One character is still mourning his deceased male lover.
NARRATION:
Note: I am not sure how fair a review of the narrator this is. I really liked Candice Moll's narration of the first book, especially the Australian accent. Plus I very rarely like it when they change narrators mid-way. It would have been different if the majority of the book had been from Ember's POV, thus making it logical to have a different reader. But the central character is still Ashala.
Character voices differentiated = Only "sort of" / Opposite sex voices acceptable = just barely, I wasn't fond of Connor's voice at all / Accents good = Not applicable / Phrasing, Pacing & Pronunciation = Good / Emoting = Good / Speed = Slow; I listened on 1.5 instead of my usual 1.25
February 14, 2019
3.5 stars
July 14, 2020
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
Ashala is still dealing with the events of book one, The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf, when Ember goes missing after a trip to Gull City. Running with the wolf pack to protect the Tribe from herself, Ashala takes some convincing from Connor, Georgie and Daniel to reclaim her humanity and help find Ember. Told from Ashala's point of view and through a number of memories provided by Ember, we are introduced to some new characters; Jules, a new friend of Ember's with , who finds his way to the Tribe to help search for her; Leo, a mysterious man from Spinifex City, and Starbeauty, his equally mysterious cat.
I enjoyed this book more than the first, as the plot was more engaging and the revelations made about Ember's family were unexpected. I still wasn't sold the 'romance', neither between or Connor and Ashala, or . And whilst we discovered more about the world and it's origins, there was no mention of how the Illegals came to have their powers. Whilst this book was better, it still didn't blow me away or excite me a great deal; it was just a good solid read. Here's hoping the next book is even better.
Ashala is still dealing with the events of book one, The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf, when Ember goes missing after a trip to Gull City. Running with the wolf pack to protect the Tribe from herself, Ashala takes some convincing from Connor, Georgie and Daniel to reclaim her humanity and help find Ember. Told from Ashala's point of view and through a number of memories provided by Ember, we are introduced to some new characters; Jules, a new friend of Ember's with , who finds his way to the Tribe to help search for her; Leo, a mysterious man from Spinifex City, and Starbeauty, his equally mysterious cat.
I enjoyed this book more than the first, as the plot was more engaging and the revelations made about Ember's family were unexpected. I still wasn't sold the 'romance', neither between or Connor and Ashala, or . And whilst we discovered more about the world and it's origins, there was no mention of how the Illegals came to have their powers. Whilst this book was better, it still didn't blow me away or excite me a great deal; it was just a good solid read. Here's hoping the next book is even better.
November 3, 2018
Another solid instalment in this exciting series. Interesting twist, one I did not see coming in the first book.
April 11, 2018
This is the second in the Tribe series and it focuses on one of the main characters from the first book - Ember Crow. It picks up the tale a few months after the events of the first book but it deals more with the fallout from those events on the main characters - Ember is missing and Ashala is running with her animals the wolves. As before, it is set in dystopian future after some environmental disaster with society. The world is divided into legals and illegals, the latter who are people with abilities. However, most of the explanations are brief in this book compared to the first - "The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf."
Ashala is suffering from a type of post traumatic syndrome but once Ember's disappearance is related to her, she sets out to find her friend. However, not everything is as it seems and Ember has been keeping secrets. As Ashala struggles with her own mental pain and fears, she realises that Ember like herself is dealing with some past trauma. When Ember sends back new introduction to the series Jules and some memory stones to explain, Ashala realizes that Ember must return for the sake of the Tribe and is blind to how she is essential to its survival.
Ashala, her partner Connor and Jules set out on Ember's trail and along the way they uncover Ember's identity and the story she has created for them. When eventually they find her and realise how and why she has constructed herself - the story we and Ashala have been told gets turned on its head. The author manages to take everything we have learned from the first book and completely turn it around.
The story is still a tale of identity and how it is constructed and interpreted but it is also a tale of the Tribe. Here again the Tribe is threatened by forces but now these include internal divisions. How the Tribe members interact and create a family atmosphere but still keep secrets that could damage them is widely explored. The author manages to weave these elements together with the idea of Balance (explained in the first book) and how central it is to survival not only to the Tribe but all of humanity.
Ms Kwaymullina has managed to write a sequel that is just as compelling as the first book, while altering what we think we have learned from that story. Ashala and Ember are the main focus of this story and it is their interaction that is so compelling. How their friendship influences the Tribe and is in effect the backbone of this family is a huge part of the narrative. The threats from the first book have not gone away and though it is more second string to the main characters, the villains reveal the possible future threat to the Tribe, illegals and the Balance itself. The story itself is once again about identity and how we are seen and portrayed. However, it is also about cultural and historical identity and how it is utilised by factions within society.
Once again Ms Kwaymullina has written a compelling book, with all the complicated depth of the first in the series. By using her own history and culture of the Aborigines, it lends this series a freshness to the fantasy genre. The characters are compelling and complicated, yet realistic and approachable. The fantasy elements are well thought out and the idea of Illegals and Balance make complete sense. I would say it is necessary to read the first book " The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf", so I would advise you to go read that book first, then read this and then go back and read both again! A highly recommended read for young teenagers and adults who love fantasy and dystopian works.
Ashala is suffering from a type of post traumatic syndrome but once Ember's disappearance is related to her, she sets out to find her friend. However, not everything is as it seems and Ember has been keeping secrets. As Ashala struggles with her own mental pain and fears, she realises that Ember like herself is dealing with some past trauma. When Ember sends back new introduction to the series Jules and some memory stones to explain, Ashala realizes that Ember must return for the sake of the Tribe and is blind to how she is essential to its survival.
Ashala, her partner Connor and Jules set out on Ember's trail and along the way they uncover Ember's identity and the story she has created for them. When eventually they find her and realise how and why she has constructed herself - the story we and Ashala have been told gets turned on its head. The author manages to take everything we have learned from the first book and completely turn it around.
The story is still a tale of identity and how it is constructed and interpreted but it is also a tale of the Tribe. Here again the Tribe is threatened by forces but now these include internal divisions. How the Tribe members interact and create a family atmosphere but still keep secrets that could damage them is widely explored. The author manages to weave these elements together with the idea of Balance (explained in the first book) and how central it is to survival not only to the Tribe but all of humanity.
Ms Kwaymullina has managed to write a sequel that is just as compelling as the first book, while altering what we think we have learned from that story. Ashala and Ember are the main focus of this story and it is their interaction that is so compelling. How their friendship influences the Tribe and is in effect the backbone of this family is a huge part of the narrative. The threats from the first book have not gone away and though it is more second string to the main characters, the villains reveal the possible future threat to the Tribe, illegals and the Balance itself. The story itself is once again about identity and how we are seen and portrayed. However, it is also about cultural and historical identity and how it is utilised by factions within society.
Once again Ms Kwaymullina has written a compelling book, with all the complicated depth of the first in the series. By using her own history and culture of the Aborigines, it lends this series a freshness to the fantasy genre. The characters are compelling and complicated, yet realistic and approachable. The fantasy elements are well thought out and the idea of Illegals and Balance make complete sense. I would say it is necessary to read the first book " The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf", so I would advise you to go read that book first, then read this and then go back and read both again! A highly recommended read for young teenagers and adults who love fantasy and dystopian works.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2013
“However this ends, you're probably going to find out some things about me, and they're not nice things. But, Ash, even after you know, do you think that you could remember the good? And whatever you end up discovering – try to think of me kindly. If you can.”
The Disappearance of Ember Crow takes place six months after the events of The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf in which Ashala and the Tribe successfully exposed the cruel treatment of Illegals at the hands of Neville Rose at Detention Centre 3.
At the start of Ember Crow we discover that Ashala has 'gone wolf' because she is terrified by the power of her ability to Sleepwalk – a power that she feels is a danger to those she loves most, including Connor. However Ashala is forced to return to the Tribe when she discovers that one of her closest friends – Ember – has gone missing and may be in grave danger. What follows is a story full of surprises and a conspiracy that could pose an even greater risk to the Tribe and the other Illegals than the Citizenship Accords.
Like with the last novel, there is plenty of action and adrenalin pumping adventure to be had this time around. Not only do Neville Rose and Dr Grey reappear, awaiting trial and possible execution, but a new threat to the Illegals emerges that hints at much grander schemes than a man who enjoys inflicting pain on children. As a result, we learn a lot more about the potential powers Illegals can wield as they are turned against each other and The Tribe must do all they can to protect lives and their reputation.
When I read The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf last year I was blown away by the story and Kwaymullina's ability to bring a completely new addition to the dystopian genre. Her latest novel certainly doesn't disappoint, bringing yet another genre into play and throwing even more curve balls that I did not see coming.
Dystopias and science fiction are two genres that work well together and Kwaymullina has seamlessly melded the two in a way that made it completely plausible that remnants of the old world technology survived the apocalypse. Speaking of surviving the apocalypse, as a cat person I'm very glad to report that not only did cats survive, but one of them is actually one of the old world spirits assisting Ashala.
“It was an evil thing, Ember. Done simply because he was different, and they were afraid of that difference. I am not denying it.”
The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf had some strong messages of tolerance, acceptance and basic human rights. In The Disappearance of Ember Crow, through the science fiction genre, Kwaymullia is able to extend her message of tolerance to challenge the very definition of humanity. In the past, Ashala and the Tribe of Illegals have been hunted down for being unnatural and against The Balance, but should the secrets in this novel get out, even more people will be put at risk. These new twists have made me really excited for the next novel to be released, as I can't wait to see what other directions Kwaymullina might take us.
The Disappearance of Ember Crow takes place six months after the events of The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf in which Ashala and the Tribe successfully exposed the cruel treatment of Illegals at the hands of Neville Rose at Detention Centre 3.
At the start of Ember Crow we discover that Ashala has 'gone wolf' because she is terrified by the power of her ability to Sleepwalk – a power that she feels is a danger to those she loves most, including Connor. However Ashala is forced to return to the Tribe when she discovers that one of her closest friends – Ember – has gone missing and may be in grave danger. What follows is a story full of surprises and a conspiracy that could pose an even greater risk to the Tribe and the other Illegals than the Citizenship Accords.
Like with the last novel, there is plenty of action and adrenalin pumping adventure to be had this time around. Not only do Neville Rose and Dr Grey reappear, awaiting trial and possible execution, but a new threat to the Illegals emerges that hints at much grander schemes than a man who enjoys inflicting pain on children. As a result, we learn a lot more about the potential powers Illegals can wield as they are turned against each other and The Tribe must do all they can to protect lives and their reputation.
When I read The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf last year I was blown away by the story and Kwaymullina's ability to bring a completely new addition to the dystopian genre. Her latest novel certainly doesn't disappoint, bringing yet another genre into play and throwing even more curve balls that I did not see coming.
Dystopias and science fiction are two genres that work well together and Kwaymullina has seamlessly melded the two in a way that made it completely plausible that remnants of the old world technology survived the apocalypse. Speaking of surviving the apocalypse, as a cat person I'm very glad to report that not only did cats survive, but one of them is actually one of the old world spirits assisting Ashala.
“It was an evil thing, Ember. Done simply because he was different, and they were afraid of that difference. I am not denying it.”
The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf had some strong messages of tolerance, acceptance and basic human rights. In The Disappearance of Ember Crow, through the science fiction genre, Kwaymullia is able to extend her message of tolerance to challenge the very definition of humanity. In the past, Ashala and the Tribe of Illegals have been hunted down for being unnatural and against The Balance, but should the secrets in this novel get out, even more people will be put at risk. These new twists have made me really excited for the next novel to be released, as I can't wait to see what other directions Kwaymullina might take us.
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