What do you think?
Rate this book
The Invisible College #2
The Violence of Sound
A husband and wife brought together by magic strive to stop a war of the worlds in an epic adventure of hope, sorcery, and secrets by Wall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler.
What humankind feared the most has come to the Awakening of the Aesir, an ancient race who rose with an implacable vengeance to wage war on mortals through bombardments and plague. Two people gifted with magic and ingenuity strive to stop them.
Professor Robinson Hawksley, an elocutionist in the Invisible College, prepares to exhibit his invention to the world. Using sound to defeat the enemy could change the course of the war. It’s invaluable to the military. Even more so to a conniving rival who’ll do anything to prove its patent as her own. An extraordinary obstacle could stand in the Robinson’s new wife, McKenna, robbed of her hearing by an Aesir scourge, is otherwise blessed with mysterious powers she’s only beginning to comprehend. She’s also harboring a secret that could get her killed.
As a very human war escalates inside the Invisible College, a supernatural one with the Aesir rages outside. But are love and sorcery enough for Robinson and McKenna to conquer both?
What humankind feared the most has come to the Awakening of the Aesir, an ancient race who rose with an implacable vengeance to wage war on mortals through bombardments and plague. Two people gifted with magic and ingenuity strive to stop them.
Professor Robinson Hawksley, an elocutionist in the Invisible College, prepares to exhibit his invention to the world. Using sound to defeat the enemy could change the course of the war. It’s invaluable to the military. Even more so to a conniving rival who’ll do anything to prove its patent as her own. An extraordinary obstacle could stand in the Robinson’s new wife, McKenna, robbed of her hearing by an Aesir scourge, is otherwise blessed with mysterious powers she’s only beginning to comprehend. She’s also harboring a secret that could get her killed.
As a very human war escalates inside the Invisible College, a supernatural one with the Aesir rages outside. But are love and sorcery enough for Robinson and McKenna to conquer both?
419 pages, Paperback
Published April 15, 2025
734 people are currently reading
5753 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Wheeler
126 books5,215 followersWall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler took an early retirement from his career at Intel in 2014 to write full-time. He is a husband, father of five, and a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jeff lives in the Rocky Mountains.
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
July 13, 2025
Reviewed in my April wrap up: https://youtu.be/aTHsIUjMaOQ
I read The Invisible College to provide context for this second book in the series, which I had as an ALC from NetGalley, so this review will cover everything we’ve learned to this point. This series has some compelling elements, including rich worldbuilding and a unique magic system, but I had a hard time connecting with the characters and found certain aspects frustrating or underdeveloped.
Let’s start with the worldbuilding, which was by far its strongest suit. The Aesir are aliens from a cold, icy world: seven feet tall with silver hair, skin like snow crystals, pale diamond-like eyes, and a jewel wrapped in white gold embedded in their foreheads. They are visually striking, and I love that it’s been a century since the last awakening, making them feel more like lore than a real threat… until everything changes.
The magic system here is particularly interesting, based on the intelligence of animals. They seem to believe that all animals (even insects like cockroaches) possess some form of sentience. Which made me wonder: does this belief influence their society in deeper ways? Do they eat animals? Use them for labour? It turns out they do continue to use and eat animals, without any acknowledgement of the contradictions implied by their belief in their sentience, which felt like a huge oversight and missed potential for some fascinating commentary on both their world and our own.
I loved that the magic system also involved music! Music as magic is so underutilized in fantasy (in my experience), and it felt very fresh.
Unfortunately, the characters and their relationships didn’t work too well for me. The book is very romance-heavy, with a noticeable age gap. Rob is presented as too perfect: humble, generous, selfless, always saving children, and helping the poor, even starving himself because he believed money from his benefactor should go to his experiments instead. The one time he was mildly annoyed (for good reason), he later gave up on expecting respect and consideration and apologized to the one who lied to him. I love a male love interest who isn’t just a bundle of alpha male tropes, especially in fantasy, but Rob’s saintliness went so far as to make him bland… just one long list of virtues, with no edge or flaws at all.
McKenna, on the other hand, felt very young and immature. She’s constantly whining, panicking, crying, or pausing conversation to define words (possibly for young readers’ benefit, but it was clunky) and talking about how much she loves them. Her habit of tricking people instead of having a conversation was endlessly frustrating. Her relationship with Rob didn’t feel earned, and I wish their connection had more development and a slower burn. As it is, I’m just not that invested in them.
McKenna’s sister, Clara’s, character development was jarring. She seemed to have a personality transplant from the first to the second book. She was a bully and cruel, a ring leader and constantly tormenting her deaf older sister, and then she’s suddenly kind, loving, and super caring in the second book… I love to see characters grow and change, especially when they’re young to start with, but it didn’t feel consistent, gradual, or believable the way it was handled.
The lore kept me going in this series. Things like the cricket music box and the wasp cookie jar that stings anyone who tries to take a cookie were delightfully strange. The concept of semblances (people who’ve died and been possessed by an Aesir) was fascinating. There were some fun plot moments and twists that were hinted at enough to predict the outcome, but still revealed in a satisfying way. I just wanted more of it. More development. More depth. More attention to the big ideas the book introduced, like inheritance moving down through women or the implications of sentient animal magic. These are massive changes from our real history and should have a marked impact on the world and society.
The ending of book two was a very open-ended cliffhanger, which isn’t my favourite choice, but could work depending on how things unfold in the next book. I’m willing to try the next installment, but I’m mostly here for the world, the magic, and the lore, not the characters or romance. If future books dig deeper into the philosophical underpinnings of their world and give more room for character growth (especially for McKenna), I’d be interested in continuing.
That said, I’d love to hear from more deaf readers about how the representation landed for them. McKenna was raised as if she were hearing, never learned to sign, has no contact with other deaf people or her community, and spends a significant amount of time wishing she weren’t deaf. I am not qualified to speak to the quality of the representation, but I found myself hoping she would seek out her community and come to value it.
Ultimately, this series had so much potential - cool ideas, unique magic, and moments of real intrigue - but the character work and pacing left me wanting more.
Trigger/Content Warnings: war, violence & death, fire injury, ableism
You can find me on...
Youtube | Instagram | TikTok
You can join our book club over on Patreon...
PBB Book Club
Thank you to Netgalley for the ALC.
I read The Invisible College to provide context for this second book in the series, which I had as an ALC from NetGalley, so this review will cover everything we’ve learned to this point. This series has some compelling elements, including rich worldbuilding and a unique magic system, but I had a hard time connecting with the characters and found certain aspects frustrating or underdeveloped.
Let’s start with the worldbuilding, which was by far its strongest suit. The Aesir are aliens from a cold, icy world: seven feet tall with silver hair, skin like snow crystals, pale diamond-like eyes, and a jewel wrapped in white gold embedded in their foreheads. They are visually striking, and I love that it’s been a century since the last awakening, making them feel more like lore than a real threat… until everything changes.
The magic system here is particularly interesting, based on the intelligence of animals. They seem to believe that all animals (even insects like cockroaches) possess some form of sentience. Which made me wonder: does this belief influence their society in deeper ways? Do they eat animals? Use them for labour? It turns out they do continue to use and eat animals, without any acknowledgement of the contradictions implied by their belief in their sentience, which felt like a huge oversight and missed potential for some fascinating commentary on both their world and our own.
I loved that the magic system also involved music! Music as magic is so underutilized in fantasy (in my experience), and it felt very fresh.
Unfortunately, the characters and their relationships didn’t work too well for me. The book is very romance-heavy, with a noticeable age gap. Rob is presented as too perfect: humble, generous, selfless, always saving children, and helping the poor, even starving himself because he believed money from his benefactor should go to his experiments instead. The one time he was mildly annoyed (for good reason), he later gave up on expecting respect and consideration and apologized to the one who lied to him. I love a male love interest who isn’t just a bundle of alpha male tropes, especially in fantasy, but Rob’s saintliness went so far as to make him bland… just one long list of virtues, with no edge or flaws at all.
McKenna, on the other hand, felt very young and immature. She’s constantly whining, panicking, crying, or pausing conversation to define words (possibly for young readers’ benefit, but it was clunky) and talking about how much she loves them. Her habit of tricking people instead of having a conversation was endlessly frustrating. Her relationship with Rob didn’t feel earned, and I wish their connection had more development and a slower burn. As it is, I’m just not that invested in them.
McKenna’s sister, Clara’s, character development was jarring. She seemed to have a personality transplant from the first to the second book. She was a bully and cruel, a ring leader and constantly tormenting her deaf older sister, and then she’s suddenly kind, loving, and super caring in the second book… I love to see characters grow and change, especially when they’re young to start with, but it didn’t feel consistent, gradual, or believable the way it was handled.
The lore kept me going in this series. Things like the cricket music box and the wasp cookie jar that stings anyone who tries to take a cookie were delightfully strange. The concept of semblances (people who’ve died and been possessed by an Aesir) was fascinating. There were some fun plot moments and twists that were hinted at enough to predict the outcome, but still revealed in a satisfying way. I just wanted more of it. More development. More depth. More attention to the big ideas the book introduced, like inheritance moving down through women or the implications of sentient animal magic. These are massive changes from our real history and should have a marked impact on the world and society.
The ending of book two was a very open-ended cliffhanger, which isn’t my favourite choice, but could work depending on how things unfold in the next book. I’m willing to try the next installment, but I’m mostly here for the world, the magic, and the lore, not the characters or romance. If future books dig deeper into the philosophical underpinnings of their world and give more room for character growth (especially for McKenna), I’d be interested in continuing.
That said, I’d love to hear from more deaf readers about how the representation landed for them. McKenna was raised as if she were hearing, never learned to sign, has no contact with other deaf people or her community, and spends a significant amount of time wishing she weren’t deaf. I am not qualified to speak to the quality of the representation, but I found myself hoping she would seek out her community and come to value it.
Ultimately, this series had so much potential - cool ideas, unique magic, and moments of real intrigue - but the character work and pacing left me wanting more.
Trigger/Content Warnings: war, violence & death, fire injury, ableism
You can find me on...
Youtube | Instagram | TikTok
You can join our book club over on Patreon...
PBB Book Club
Thank you to Netgalley for the ALC.
April 21, 2025
4.5/5.0
Oh boy… ohhhhhhh boy! What is going on in this story?!?! YIKES! I don’t even know where to begin there is so much stomach churning, lip biting, page turning awesomeness going on!
First, I must say this is the second book in the Invisible Collage series and it really isn’t a standalone. The events take off and rely heavily on that first book (which rated a rare 5 stars from me, as well, btw), so if you haven’t read that one yet, do it NOW! Then, come back and we’ll talk (because I REALLY need some talking to after this one!)
What has me so worked up? Well, from the first page the suspicions fall heavy over our main characters. The military decides to take a course of action that can and probably will destroy both McKenna and Robinson. In a genius twist by the author, readers are able to see exactly what is happening but with no idea if it is justified or what the outcome of everyone’s choices will be. That’s where all that churning, biting, page turning comes in. We love this amazing, sweet, wonderful couple but are watching the intrigues against them play out, with the same suspicions the villains have! It is truly some of the best twisty, turny writing out there today.
So, why not a straight five star rating? One reason and one reason only. That STUPID cliffhanger ending!! It not only shoves us off the cliff, twisting the knife and leaving us gutted where McKenna and Robinson are concerned but it also throws us off another ledge (as a nice epilogue) where the overall story is concerned. The end.
Now, if you are one who can walk away and forget about it for… oh, six months or so (yes, I raced over and looked up when the next book comes out) this book will still be five star heaven. However, for those like myself who NEED at least a little peace and closure where those characters I love and am invested in are concerned - even if the overall arc is tremulously dire - this ending will infuriate you. I literally had to stay up doubly late scrolling stupid cat videos just to calm the brain enough to sleep. Curse you, Mr. Wheeler!
Oh boy… ohhhhhhh boy! What is going on in this story?!?! YIKES! I don’t even know where to begin there is so much stomach churning, lip biting, page turning awesomeness going on!
First, I must say this is the second book in the Invisible Collage series and it really isn’t a standalone. The events take off and rely heavily on that first book (which rated a rare 5 stars from me, as well, btw), so if you haven’t read that one yet, do it NOW! Then, come back and we’ll talk (because I REALLY need some talking to after this one!)
What has me so worked up? Well, from the first page the suspicions fall heavy over our main characters. The military decides to take a course of action that can and probably will destroy both McKenna and Robinson. In a genius twist by the author, readers are able to see exactly what is happening but with no idea if it is justified or what the outcome of everyone’s choices will be. That’s where all that churning, biting, page turning comes in. We love this amazing, sweet, wonderful couple but are watching the intrigues against them play out, with the same suspicions the villains have! It is truly some of the best twisty, turny writing out there today.
So, why not a straight five star rating? One reason and one reason only. That STUPID cliffhanger ending!! It not only shoves us off the cliff, twisting the knife and leaving us gutted where McKenna and Robinson are concerned but it also throws us off another ledge (as a nice epilogue) where the overall story is concerned. The end.
Now, if you are one who can walk away and forget about it for… oh, six months or so (yes, I raced over and looked up when the next book comes out) this book will still be five star heaven. However, for those like myself who NEED at least a little peace and closure where those characters I love and am invested in are concerned - even if the overall arc is tremulously dire - this ending will infuriate you. I literally had to stay up doubly late scrolling stupid cat videos just to calm the brain enough to sleep. Curse you, Mr. Wheeler!
August 20, 2025
My Quick Takes:
- 4.25/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
- Genre 📚 Fantasy
- Language 🤐 none
- Spice ❤️🔥 none/closed-door
- Content 🤔 themes of war, violence, deaf rep
I went into this book thinking it would dive deeper into the magic elements and lore of the enemy and my expectations were completely wrong 😅
Book 2 continued to follow the two main characters and their developing relationship. Along the way they are man hunted and uncovering more about each other while finding limitations with magic. There is a lot of world building and foreshadowing of what’s to come. The majority of the plot and stakes happen in the final 20% of the book. I’m excited to continue reading this FOUR BOOK series as it is published, I have high expectations for what the author is building to.
This second book just solidified in my mind that this series would make for a great intro to fantasy for readers who don’t necessarily gravitate toward this genre. It’s a mix of regency romance and victorian futurism, so there is a foot in the real world (with a magical period spin) that will keep readers grounded. There’s also only a few points of view, mainly two with a couple others popping up along the narrative.
I listened to this on audio, it’s on kindle unlimited and gives a free audible option when you add it to your KU library 👏🏼 I loved the first book more, but am excited for the scene this second book set and the cliffhanger made me want to dive straight into book 3!
- 4.25/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
- Genre 📚 Fantasy
- Language 🤐 none
- Spice ❤️🔥 none/closed-door
- Content 🤔 themes of war, violence, deaf rep
I went into this book thinking it would dive deeper into the magic elements and lore of the enemy and my expectations were completely wrong 😅
Book 2 continued to follow the two main characters and their developing relationship. Along the way they are man hunted and uncovering more about each other while finding limitations with magic. There is a lot of world building and foreshadowing of what’s to come. The majority of the plot and stakes happen in the final 20% of the book. I’m excited to continue reading this FOUR BOOK series as it is published, I have high expectations for what the author is building to.
This second book just solidified in my mind that this series would make for a great intro to fantasy for readers who don’t necessarily gravitate toward this genre. It’s a mix of regency romance and victorian futurism, so there is a foot in the real world (with a magical period spin) that will keep readers grounded. There’s also only a few points of view, mainly two with a couple others popping up along the narrative.
I listened to this on audio, it’s on kindle unlimited and gives a free audible option when you add it to your KU library 👏🏼 I loved the first book more, but am excited for the scene this second book set and the cliffhanger made me want to dive straight into book 3!
April 1, 2025
4.5 this book had a slow start then after about 10% I was fully locked in! I was fully immersed in the story and the magic system! I couldn’t put it down for the last 20%. I loved the academics aspects and the glimpses of romance. Thank you NetGalley for the ALC
August 6, 2025
Ahhhhh cliffhangers! I love it. Thankfully the next book is coming in September
April 15, 2025
Love it so much I hate it 🤣
Read at your own risk of:
1. Loving McKenna and Robinson, and how their marriage grows in this book. (love the very sweet chaste kisses and how the door stays closed- perfect for teens)
2. Loving the worldbuilding - Steampunk + Intelligences + an evil magic ice magic race + invention contests
3. Staying up all night because you have to know what happens next even though your friends already told you its book two so expect it to end on a cliff hanger
4. REALLY cool music magic that has you fascinated and wanting to study music
5. Wanting to have a dictionary on hand because they use big words that are really cool, but you need a dictionary
6. Very hateable villains that make you want to pull your hair out
7. ALL THE SUSPENSE - and loving it
8. Did I mention Robinson? love that guy. a very devoted husband who is just awesome.
9. Wickins + Clara - nough said
10. Because it's a Jeff Wheeler book and now you want to read everything else from the World's of Jeff Wheeler because there's gotta be something/somehow it ties into the rest of his books (I'm determined to find the little snippets)
⚠️Deaf representation. refer to authors note from book one - The Invisible College
⚠️Death (it's fantasy- but it's not gruesome)
Read at your own risk of:
1. Loving McKenna and Robinson, and how their marriage grows in this book. (love the very sweet chaste kisses and how the door stays closed- perfect for teens)
2. Loving the worldbuilding - Steampunk + Intelligences + an evil magic ice magic race + invention contests
3. Staying up all night because you have to know what happens next even though your friends already told you its book two so expect it to end on a cliff hanger
4. REALLY cool music magic that has you fascinated and wanting to study music
5. Wanting to have a dictionary on hand because they use big words that are really cool, but you need a dictionary
6. Very hateable villains that make you want to pull your hair out
7. ALL THE SUSPENSE - and loving it
8. Did I mention Robinson? love that guy. a very devoted husband who is just awesome.
9. Wickins + Clara - nough said
10. Because it's a Jeff Wheeler book and now you want to read everything else from the World's of Jeff Wheeler because there's gotta be something/somehow it ties into the rest of his books (I'm determined to find the little snippets)
⚠️Deaf representation. refer to authors note from book one - The Invisible College
⚠️Death (it's fantasy- but it's not gruesome)
September 16, 2025
This is the sequel to The Invisiible Library, and I recommend reading that first. In this book we have newlyweds Robinson and McKenna at odds with the military as they think she is a not-zombie. There’s a lot of intrigue and romance and danger from the Aesir (not romance from the Aesir). It was very unpredictable, paced perfectly, and a grand adventure. The world is super cool and has some parallels to ours. The ending is a cliffhanger! But the next book is due out pretty soon.
Language: Clean
Sexual Content: Mild amorous actions between married couple
Violence/Gore: Murder; war castualties mentioned — not very graphic
Harm to Animals:
Harm to Children:
Other (Triggers):
Language: Clean
Sexual Content: Mild amorous actions between married couple
Violence/Gore: Murder; war castualties mentioned — not very graphic
Harm to Animals:
Harm to Children:
Other (Triggers):
April 11, 2025
Violence of Sound ARC reader. Gifted an ARC for my honest review.
Overall this book was fantastic. Kept me interested all the way through and was much better than the first book! (I had a lot of qualms with the suddeness of the romance last book where it seemed like Rob lost all of his critical thinking and decision making skills) I felt like the characters were developed well and we got to see some morally grey characters show their colors. We also got to see more of the bad guy. I was hoping for a reveal of who Rob really is in this book but alas we shall continue to wait for that! Overall I am very pleased and will definitely continue eagerly reading this series!
Spoiler below!!!
This was my only main frustration from this book:
In ch 11 we found out that Robinson needed to apologize to McKenna to get the intelligences to listen to him and lend him magic. Instead of Rob now needing to find some other way to overcome this challenge now that Mckenna is headed out of town on the train, Jeff promptly changed the narrative to where the dog intelligence was just taking a long time to get there. If the intelligences are founded on the honor of those who use them, then that needs to be consistent. Rob should not have been able to use the dog intelligence if he hadn't reconciled with McKenna. This would have been a great opportunity for Jeff to show Rob’s other talents or problem solving skills, but instead the dog was just taking a long time to get there.
Overall this book was fantastic. Kept me interested all the way through and was much better than the first book! (I had a lot of qualms with the suddeness of the romance last book where it seemed like Rob lost all of his critical thinking and decision making skills) I felt like the characters were developed well and we got to see some morally grey characters show their colors. We also got to see more of the bad guy. I was hoping for a reveal of who Rob really is in this book but alas we shall continue to wait for that! Overall I am very pleased and will definitely continue eagerly reading this series!
Spoiler below!!!
This was my only main frustration from this book:
In ch 11 we found out that Robinson needed to apologize to McKenna to get the intelligences to listen to him and lend him magic. Instead of Rob now needing to find some other way to overcome this challenge now that Mckenna is headed out of town on the train, Jeff promptly changed the narrative to where the dog intelligence was just taking a long time to get there. If the intelligences are founded on the honor of those who use them, then that needs to be consistent. Rob should not have been able to use the dog intelligence if he hadn't reconciled with McKenna. This would have been a great opportunity for Jeff to show Rob’s other talents or problem solving skills, but instead the dog was just taking a long time to get there.
April 15, 2025
I love that this book picks up where the first book ended and that it gives you reminders of characters and events when they occur of what happened in the first book so you're not lost. It is slower than the first book but it still hold a lot of mystery and intrigue. I love the words Jeff uses in these series and I feel like I'm learning as I'm getting immersed into this world. All the world building he does is phenomenal and I truly wish we could live in this society where honor and honestly is upheld in the highest degree. We also need a moment to praise McKenna's father because regardless of his position in society and how society sees his daughter and the deaf community, he stands up for them and for Rob and we need more of him! I feel bad for Rob and McKenna because they're relationship has been anything but normal and easy, so why should their honeymoon be any different? But this book dives into some of the unanswered questions from the first book but it introduces more questions I need answers to. It just keeps you diving into that rabbit hole for more answers. The twist I did not see and the ending! Ugh, book 3 could not come any sooner!
April 26, 2025
If you have not read the first one turn around and go read that one first! Do not proceed otherwise! You definitely need the first book in order to understand this one and trust me you want to I love this one more then I love the first and the first one was great!
Language 🤐: Clean
Spice❤️🔥: Lv 2 Slightly descriptive kissing I would say
⚠️ Discussion of a suicide, War time things not overly descriptive, someone is shot in front of the characters not overly descriptive but could be disturbing to some readers, prejudice against the FMC and her being deaf⚠️
Tropes/Vibes/You'll like this book if you like these things
- 3 People POV MMC, FMC, and General of the Army
-Protective MMC
- Intelligent and resourceful FMC
- Unique world
- Semi steampunk vibe
- Magical Discover
- Fleeing from danger
- Daring Escapes
- Deaf representation
- Political Intrigue
- Unique Magical system- Music is how magic works
- Regency feelings
- Couple overcoming obstacle and learnign to communicate and grow
- If you loved the first book!
- A gripping storyline the keeps you on the edge of your seat
- Watching character growth
- A cliffhanger that even though you know it's coming you didn't see it coming
AHHH! That cliffhanger! The next book can not come fast enough! When I received my ARC I did see that there were some reviews here and knew it was coming but man I was totally unprepared somehow! 😅 Jeff you're killing me but I love this story so I guess I will have to survive until the next one somehow! Haha if you have read this and need someone to commiserate with while we wait for the next message me I'd be happy to chat. Now on to the actual content of the book!
The perspectives in this book were so interesting! I felt like this was such a unique way to do this story because we were given the POV of General Colsterworth, because of this fact you are savvy to some of the going on that Mckenna and Robison are not! Which leads to (at least for me) hanging on to the edge of your seat as you watch things unfold truly unsure what is going to happen but seeing it coming at the same time. I feel that I am doing a very poor job of explaining this unique story. Because of us being privy to the meeting of some of the higher ups in the political landscape of this world it is interesting to see how Mckenna and Robison handle the different things that are coming their way.
Along with all the outside things that they are traversing I love getting to experience Mckenna and Robison as newlyweds and watch as they learned to navigate that along with the challenges of all the outside influences! Their love for one another is truly beautifully as they learn to come together and navigate through the blending of two lives together!
The Violence of Sound is definitely one not to be missed! It is quick paced and leaves you breathless ready to dive into the next of the series!
Thank you so much for the ARC! These thoughts are my own!
Language 🤐: Clean
Spice❤️🔥: Lv 2 Slightly descriptive kissing I would say
⚠️ Discussion of a suicide, War time things not overly descriptive, someone is shot in front of the characters not overly descriptive but could be disturbing to some readers, prejudice against the FMC and her being deaf⚠️
Tropes/Vibes/You'll like this book if you like these things
- 3 People POV MMC, FMC, and General of the Army
-Protective MMC
- Intelligent and resourceful FMC
- Unique world
- Semi steampunk vibe
- Magical Discover
- Fleeing from danger
- Daring Escapes
- Deaf representation
- Political Intrigue
- Unique Magical system- Music is how magic works
- Regency feelings
- Couple overcoming obstacle and learnign to communicate and grow
- If you loved the first book!
- A gripping storyline the keeps you on the edge of your seat
- Watching character growth
- A cliffhanger that even though you know it's coming you didn't see it coming
AHHH! That cliffhanger! The next book can not come fast enough! When I received my ARC I did see that there were some reviews here and knew it was coming but man I was totally unprepared somehow! 😅 Jeff you're killing me but I love this story so I guess I will have to survive until the next one somehow! Haha if you have read this and need someone to commiserate with while we wait for the next message me I'd be happy to chat. Now on to the actual content of the book!
The perspectives in this book were so interesting! I felt like this was such a unique way to do this story because we were given the POV of General Colsterworth, because of this fact you are savvy to some of the going on that Mckenna and Robison are not! Which leads to (at least for me) hanging on to the edge of your seat as you watch things unfold truly unsure what is going to happen but seeing it coming at the same time. I feel that I am doing a very poor job of explaining this unique story. Because of us being privy to the meeting of some of the higher ups in the political landscape of this world it is interesting to see how Mckenna and Robison handle the different things that are coming their way.
Along with all the outside things that they are traversing I love getting to experience Mckenna and Robison as newlyweds and watch as they learned to navigate that along with the challenges of all the outside influences! Their love for one another is truly beautifully as they learn to come together and navigate through the blending of two lives together!
The Violence of Sound is definitely one not to be missed! It is quick paced and leaves you breathless ready to dive into the next of the series!
Thank you so much for the ARC! These thoughts are my own!
July 2, 2025
Wow, just wow.
This series so far is GOOD! I am very into the magic system the author has put in here.
Warning, cliff hanger and the next book isn’t out until September 2025, so if you hate cliff hangers, wait.
This series so far is GOOD! I am very into the magic system the author has put in here.
Warning, cliff hanger and the next book isn’t out until September 2025, so if you hate cliff hangers, wait.
March 31, 2025
I was able to read an advance copy of this book, and it did not disappoint! The magic system in this series is pretty unique and while major plot issues have not yet been revealed this book furthers the story to a frantic cliff hanging ending.
Robinson and McKenna are very enjoyable, but both can be a little stiff. I think the plot in this book really allowed the characters to have some growth and become more well rounded, grounded and relatable.
We pick up where the previous book in the series left off. The book starts a little slowly and it took a few chapters to really dig into it, but around chapter 16 or 17 we start to uncover some substantial plot points. The array of “bad guys” in this series is sort of staggering- it is hard to tell if anyone other than our main characters are the good guys, with some being downright despicable. I also enjoyed more of the side characters and that they were fleshed out more as the story progressed as well.
I am very excited to see where this series leads and to find out what happens in the next book.
Robinson and McKenna are very enjoyable, but both can be a little stiff. I think the plot in this book really allowed the characters to have some growth and become more well rounded, grounded and relatable.
We pick up where the previous book in the series left off. The book starts a little slowly and it took a few chapters to really dig into it, but around chapter 16 or 17 we start to uncover some substantial plot points. The array of “bad guys” in this series is sort of staggering- it is hard to tell if anyone other than our main characters are the good guys, with some being downright despicable. I also enjoyed more of the side characters and that they were fleshed out more as the story progressed as well.
I am very excited to see where this series leads and to find out what happens in the next book.
June 14, 2025
Lord of the rings meets historical fiction meets Harry Potter vibes. Magic and romance and mystery…honestly I’m obsessed and can’t wait for the next one to come out in September.
February 26, 2025
Wow! What a step up from ‘The Invisible College’. I was lucky enough to obtain an ARC for this book, and let me tell you, It’s already in my basket to purchase at launch.
Hawksley & McKenna’s tale continues here and now. Picking up from where we left off in book 1, we delve further into the secrets of the Invisible College, learn how far the Aesier will truly go, and what are our main characters hiding from us.
The book does end on a semi-cliffhanger. While we all know something was going to happen, you can never be too sure what it will be.
My biggest complaint with the book is the structure. So much build up for a lacklustre pay-off. This is what detracted my score from being 5 stars to a 4.
I am really looking forward to the next book. In the mean time, I’m going to check out what else Jeff has written!
Hawksley & McKenna’s tale continues here and now. Picking up from where we left off in book 1, we delve further into the secrets of the Invisible College, learn how far the Aesier will truly go, and what are our main characters hiding from us.
The book does end on a semi-cliffhanger. While we all know something was going to happen, you can never be too sure what it will be.
My biggest complaint with the book is the structure. So much build up for a lacklustre pay-off. This is what detracted my score from being 5 stars to a 4.
I am really looking forward to the next book. In the mean time, I’m going to check out what else Jeff has written!
May 15, 2025
4.5 Stars 🌟
One thing about Mr. Wheeler is that he excels at world building - in creating completely new and different worlds that are very character heavy with strong character relationships. THIS series, is a big departure from the other series that he has been known for (The Kingfountain World with its many different series, the World of Muirwood, the Harbinger series.....etc).
In this new world, we have been introduced to a brand new race - a magical race called the Aesir. The Aesir lived very long ago in a world of extreme cold. They built cities of ice carved from massive glaciers and were very long lived -basically immortal. At that time in the past- they did work along side humans (well, maybe along side is a misnomer. Let's just say they allowed humans to serve them... ) and sometimes shared some of their magic and technology. But something happened. No one from this time period knows what, as it was so long ago and there is no one alive anymore from that time period - but it shattered whatever good will existed between the two species.
So now, they go into a period of almost slumber or hibernation during the months of warmer weather but when they wake up - all bets are off and they begin to attack and try to eliminate the human race from their existence. A lot of this was unraveled in the first book- but it was still a bit confusing.
The magic system in this world is also unique - and again, in the first book I had a difficult time understanding the specifics of it. It is based on music, humming, notes. Basically, spells are sung.
Our FMC McKenna was born deaf. In this world, that is like being born with leprosy. People are afraid to let their children near deaf people. What makes everything so interesting is that McKenna is brilliant (and she comes from a family of extremely intelligent parents and siblings) they have done their best to treat her to live as normally as possible. Through their teachings, her work with linguists and her ability to lip read - you would never know that she could not hear. Unfortunately, though, magic has to be sung and that is the one thing that she has not yet been able to master because she has never ever heard a musical note and trying to sing - and in the right key....well, it is just really hard. BUT, she is tenacious, and I would not put it past her to knock everyone socks off when she breaks that barrier.
I book one she falls in love with and marries Professor Robinson Hawksley, he is also a brilliant scientist and is probably one of the brightest men in his field at this time. He is constantly inventing new inventions that stun their society. See, if that were the only problems going on - it would still be an intriguing book - but things are not what they seem.
Something is going on with McKenna. Something is going on at the Invisible College - which is the association of sorcerers who are supposed to be above reproach (yeah, I laughed while typing that too). The army is also involved in their war against the Aesir and have done many unethical things that they justify by saying they are trying to save lives. Sound familiar? That’s a common philosophy from soldiers in any country. The ends justify the means.
So, as this book unfolds, McKenna and Rob are learning that they are involved over their heads. There are MANY factions interested in them. Some to help them, but others to get rid of them, and even others to try to steal their work (and THEN kill them).
I didn't mean to go into that much detail, but there really is a lot going on. Mr. Wheeler has done a fantastic job with the characters in this book. Both of our MC's are easy to like and to root for. They are strong, smart and devious(ha! Love to see them being so underestimated). The secondary characters are also amazing - as they are willing to blindly follow their friends because they trust and have faith in what they are being told as McKenna and Rob get deeper and deeper into the craziness.
Sooo, yes, this story is complicated, but man is it addictive. As usual, Mr. Wheeler somehow creates a world that once the world is built in your mind, then it is time to just hang on for the ride.
I'm assuming this is going to be a trilogy, but honestly, I have no idea. I just know that things are at a point where I REALLY am looking forward to the next book :)
Thank you to NetGalley and 47North for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. This book will be out for publication on April 15, 2025.
One thing about Mr. Wheeler is that he excels at world building - in creating completely new and different worlds that are very character heavy with strong character relationships. THIS series, is a big departure from the other series that he has been known for (The Kingfountain World with its many different series, the World of Muirwood, the Harbinger series.....etc).
In this new world, we have been introduced to a brand new race - a magical race called the Aesir. The Aesir lived very long ago in a world of extreme cold. They built cities of ice carved from massive glaciers and were very long lived -basically immortal. At that time in the past- they did work along side humans (well, maybe along side is a misnomer. Let's just say they allowed humans to serve them... ) and sometimes shared some of their magic and technology. But something happened. No one from this time period knows what, as it was so long ago and there is no one alive anymore from that time period - but it shattered whatever good will existed between the two species.
So now, they go into a period of almost slumber or hibernation during the months of warmer weather but when they wake up - all bets are off and they begin to attack and try to eliminate the human race from their existence. A lot of this was unraveled in the first book- but it was still a bit confusing.
The magic system in this world is also unique - and again, in the first book I had a difficult time understanding the specifics of it. It is based on music, humming, notes. Basically, spells are sung.
Our FMC McKenna was born deaf. In this world, that is like being born with leprosy. People are afraid to let their children near deaf people. What makes everything so interesting is that McKenna is brilliant (and she comes from a family of extremely intelligent parents and siblings) they have done their best to treat her to live as normally as possible. Through their teachings, her work with linguists and her ability to lip read - you would never know that she could not hear. Unfortunately, though, magic has to be sung and that is the one thing that she has not yet been able to master because she has never ever heard a musical note and trying to sing - and in the right key....well, it is just really hard. BUT, she is tenacious, and I would not put it past her to knock everyone socks off when she breaks that barrier.
I book one she falls in love with and marries Professor Robinson Hawksley, he is also a brilliant scientist and is probably one of the brightest men in his field at this time. He is constantly inventing new inventions that stun their society. See, if that were the only problems going on - it would still be an intriguing book - but things are not what they seem.
Something is going on with McKenna. Something is going on at the Invisible College - which is the association of sorcerers who are supposed to be above reproach (yeah, I laughed while typing that too). The army is also involved in their war against the Aesir and have done many unethical things that they justify by saying they are trying to save lives. Sound familiar? That’s a common philosophy from soldiers in any country. The ends justify the means.
So, as this book unfolds, McKenna and Rob are learning that they are involved over their heads. There are MANY factions interested in them. Some to help them, but others to get rid of them, and even others to try to steal their work (and THEN kill them).
I didn't mean to go into that much detail, but there really is a lot going on. Mr. Wheeler has done a fantastic job with the characters in this book. Both of our MC's are easy to like and to root for. They are strong, smart and devious(ha! Love to see them being so underestimated). The secondary characters are also amazing - as they are willing to blindly follow their friends because they trust and have faith in what they are being told as McKenna and Rob get deeper and deeper into the craziness.
Sooo, yes, this story is complicated, but man is it addictive. As usual, Mr. Wheeler somehow creates a world that once the world is built in your mind, then it is time to just hang on for the ride.
I'm assuming this is going to be a trilogy, but honestly, I have no idea. I just know that things are at a point where I REALLY am looking forward to the next book :)
Thank you to NetGalley and 47North for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. This book will be out for publication on April 15, 2025.
April 25, 2025
Values, Virtues, and Inner Violence
Jeff Wheeler gives himself away as a lover of music, opera, to be exact. I finished the Violence of Sound, wondering why the strains of Wagner's Ring Cycle were lingering in my ears. My first clue should have come from Book One: The Invisible College. McKenna has a special affinity for one of the world's cultural languages, Tanhauser, which is coincidentally the name of one of Wagner's operas. Go figure.
The Violence of Sound is about sound, voice, music, privilege, entitlement, and the value of Integrity. The haunting theme of absolute power corrupting absolutely weaves in and out like a hidden melody.
As we, the audience, become more familiar with the centuries-old fight between Mortals and the Aesir, the fight is revealed as an inner struggle to live up to the principles of The Mind of Sovereignty, Wheeler's name for the world's deity.
I have come to adore certain of his characters. The professor is humble to a fault. Who, during an Aesir plague, despite starving and weak, goes to the tenements where they have no magical protection and plays his violin all night on the rooftops.
The Violence of Sound is about the deprivation of being deaf and the many ways people judge each other despite their intelligence, charm, curiosity, and capacity to love. I was prompted to stop and do a fearless and searching moral inventory.
Wheeler even includes a scene where the professor is awarded a much higher degree of glory or magical adeptness and is initiated at the local temple. I was amused at the inside humor. Ultimately making the point that your level matters much less than what is in your heart.
This is not an easy book to read. Your heart and soul will thank you for doing it anyway. And I hope you will be left with the sound of Wagner's heroic music resounding in your ears.
Jeff Wheeler gives himself away as a lover of music, opera, to be exact. I finished the Violence of Sound, wondering why the strains of Wagner's Ring Cycle were lingering in my ears. My first clue should have come from Book One: The Invisible College. McKenna has a special affinity for one of the world's cultural languages, Tanhauser, which is coincidentally the name of one of Wagner's operas. Go figure.
The Violence of Sound is about sound, voice, music, privilege, entitlement, and the value of Integrity. The haunting theme of absolute power corrupting absolutely weaves in and out like a hidden melody.
As we, the audience, become more familiar with the centuries-old fight between Mortals and the Aesir, the fight is revealed as an inner struggle to live up to the principles of The Mind of Sovereignty, Wheeler's name for the world's deity.
I have come to adore certain of his characters. The professor is humble to a fault. Who, during an Aesir plague, despite starving and weak, goes to the tenements where they have no magical protection and plays his violin all night on the rooftops.
The Violence of Sound is about the deprivation of being deaf and the many ways people judge each other despite their intelligence, charm, curiosity, and capacity to love. I was prompted to stop and do a fearless and searching moral inventory.
Wheeler even includes a scene where the professor is awarded a much higher degree of glory or magical adeptness and is initiated at the local temple. I was amused at the inside humor. Ultimately making the point that your level matters much less than what is in your heart.
This is not an easy book to read. Your heart and soul will thank you for doing it anyway. And I hope you will be left with the sound of Wagner's heroic music resounding in your ears.
July 3, 2025
Once again, I enjoyed this book and Wheeler’s creativity with this world, yet, it did not quite deliver on what I wanted. It was nice to see a married couple in fantasy, and while I devoured the book, I couldn’t help wishing for more development around the Invisible College. It’s such an intriguing concept— an openly secret society that is heavily gatekeeped but seems to run much of society and the people are okay with that? I love the concept of the College, and I’d love to see more development on what it is like to actually be in it.
I hate to be this person, but McKenna’s character started to feel lame to me. She is set up as person with serious societal prejudices against her, an impossible dream, and an unforeseen catastrophe falls upon her. Despite those interesting challenges, she seems to just hang around. In this book she rarely tried to learn magic or even study anything. She just sat around and was a victim. She doesn’t have to me a macho-girl, fighting back physically the many attacks against her, but it would be interesting to see her put her brain to use more and actually be an active participant in the plot. I’m being harsh, she has moments, but feels lacking overall.
All that being said, I still enjoyed the book and can’t wait to read the next one!
I hate to be this person, but McKenna’s character started to feel lame to me. She is set up as person with serious societal prejudices against her, an impossible dream, and an unforeseen catastrophe falls upon her. Despite those interesting challenges, she seems to just hang around. In this book she rarely tried to learn magic or even study anything. She just sat around and was a victim. She doesn’t have to me a macho-girl, fighting back physically the many attacks against her, but it would be interesting to see her put her brain to use more and actually be an active participant in the plot. I’m being harsh, she has moments, but feels lacking overall.
All that being said, I still enjoyed the book and can’t wait to read the next one!
January 18, 2025
I was so excited to be able to arc read The Violence of Sound (book two) and boy was it good.
As a fan of Jeff Wheelers other worlds I was so excited to step back into the world of The Invisible Collage with The Violence of Sound!
It’s such an interesting world, with an amazing and intricate magic system.
I loved seeing the characters develop and their relationships with each other develop!
I adore Robinson and McKenna, I think their relationship is so beautiful and I loved seeing it get stronger over the course of this book.
It was also so interesting to have POVs from General Colsterworth.
One of the things that really stuck out to me was reading from Mckennas POVs due to her being deaf, it was such an interesting read and I thought that Jeff Wheeler wrote her incredibly well!
Warning though for those who don’t like cliffhangers, this one ends on a massive on that is likely to break your heart (like mine).
The book was incredibly captivating and kept me on the edge of my seat with more and more complications constantly being added to the plot!
I’d highly recommend it and give it four stars!
As a fan of Jeff Wheelers other worlds I was so excited to step back into the world of The Invisible Collage with The Violence of Sound!
It’s such an interesting world, with an amazing and intricate magic system.
I loved seeing the characters develop and their relationships with each other develop!
I adore Robinson and McKenna, I think their relationship is so beautiful and I loved seeing it get stronger over the course of this book.
It was also so interesting to have POVs from General Colsterworth.
One of the things that really stuck out to me was reading from Mckennas POVs due to her being deaf, it was such an interesting read and I thought that Jeff Wheeler wrote her incredibly well!
Warning though for those who don’t like cliffhangers, this one ends on a massive on that is likely to break your heart (like mine).
The book was incredibly captivating and kept me on the edge of my seat with more and more complications constantly being added to the plot!
I’d highly recommend it and give it four stars!
April 24, 2025
This is one of those ‘I’m of two minds about this’ kind of books.
The good - The plot is fun, I really enjoy the world and the magic system is interesting. I’d like to know more about the Aesir, but I’m assuming that comes in the final book.
The not so good - the romance is eye-rollingly soppy. It gets old. Also, now that Robinson is no longer dressing in clothing that had a previous life as a dog bed, can he please comb his hair and shave? He’s too young to look like Willie Nelson, even if he is so overwhelmingly qUIrKy!
The needs fixing - the copy I downloaded from Amazon has a LOT of editing errors, and I’m one of those people that notice it, and it bugs. Another run with a red pencil is in order.
All that being said, I definitely want to know what happens and am looking forward to the final book.
3.5 stars.
The good - The plot is fun, I really enjoy the world and the magic system is interesting. I’d like to know more about the Aesir, but I’m assuming that comes in the final book.
The not so good - the romance is eye-rollingly soppy. It gets old. Also, now that Robinson is no longer dressing in clothing that had a previous life as a dog bed, can he please comb his hair and shave? He’s too young to look like Willie Nelson, even if he is so overwhelmingly qUIrKy!
The needs fixing - the copy I downloaded from Amazon has a LOT of editing errors, and I’m one of those people that notice it, and it bugs. Another run with a red pencil is in order.
All that being said, I definitely want to know what happens and am looking forward to the final book.
3.5 stars.
April 15, 2025
The Violence of Sound
This is the second book in The Invisible College series. I was lucky enough to get an advance copy of the Violence of Sound so I read it greedily as I have been captivated by the characters and the story from the time I had read the first few chapters of The Invisible College. To say I was again captivated is not sufficient. I couldn't put it down. I have read it three times.
The story is gripping from the start. It had a few twists & turns which I wasn't expecting. Jeff Wheeler is a master of his art. He can create a story which becomes more and more real as you progress through the chapters. McKenna and her husband are no longer just characters. They are real people who I keep step with during their journey, enduring their hardships at the same time.
I am properly hooked and am impatient to read the rest of their story. The Alchemy of Fate cannot be here soon enough.
This is the second book in The Invisible College series. I was lucky enough to get an advance copy of the Violence of Sound so I read it greedily as I have been captivated by the characters and the story from the time I had read the first few chapters of The Invisible College. To say I was again captivated is not sufficient. I couldn't put it down. I have read it three times.
The story is gripping from the start. It had a few twists & turns which I wasn't expecting. Jeff Wheeler is a master of his art. He can create a story which becomes more and more real as you progress through the chapters. McKenna and her husband are no longer just characters. They are real people who I keep step with during their journey, enduring their hardships at the same time.
I am properly hooked and am impatient to read the rest of their story. The Alchemy of Fate cannot be here soon enough.
April 16, 2025
I received an ARC copy of this book and because of some family things that came up I wasn't able to finish until after the book was publicly released.
This is the second book in this series and I love the characters. I love anything that has secret societies and this book dives a bit more in to the Invisible College and what that means to be a part of that society. It gives heavy WWII vibes but also is slightly steampunk and very magical. I love that this book dives into the things that Robinson and McKenna struggle with daily with their differences and that they love eachother despite and also because of them. This book ends on a HEAVY cliffhanger and I'm really tl excited to see how it ends.
This is becoming one of my favorite Jeff Wheeler series and I've read them all!
This is the second book in this series and I love the characters. I love anything that has secret societies and this book dives a bit more in to the Invisible College and what that means to be a part of that society. It gives heavy WWII vibes but also is slightly steampunk and very magical. I love that this book dives into the things that Robinson and McKenna struggle with daily with their differences and that they love eachother despite and also because of them. This book ends on a HEAVY cliffhanger and I'm really tl excited to see how it ends.
This is becoming one of my favorite Jeff Wheeler series and I've read them all!
October 15, 2025
The perfect sequel to the invisible college.
Impossible to drop
Impossible to drop
May 16, 2025
DNF. I tried 🥲
July 31, 2025
This was alright. A bit slow compared to the first installment.
March 25, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
Honestly, I was very bored when reading the sequel. I just felt like we didn’t really add much to the overall story. I do agree that there were some interesting elements including the “dog intelligence” and the strenikk but overall i felt like the plot points that were added were very small and just gave the reading an overall sense of the distrust in government and war.
Honestly, I was very bored when reading the sequel. I just felt like we didn’t really add much to the overall story. I do agree that there were some interesting elements including the “dog intelligence” and the strenikk but overall i felt like the plot points that were added were very small and just gave the reading an overall sense of the distrust in government and war.
May 2, 2025
'The Violence of Sound' unfortunately falls victim to the second book syndrome. While the story picks up right from where the first installment left off, it struggles to present enough development or intrigue to warrant being a standalone book. The magical world is captivating, and the Aesir storyline offers an intriguing premise. However, the second book wasn't engaging enough to make me feel excited for the third one.
April 7, 2025
I received an advanced reader copy of The Violence of Sound, and I can confidently say this is one of Jeff Wheeler’s most emotionally layered works to date. As the second installment in the Invisible College series, it builds beautifully on the foundation laid in the first book, deepening the world and the characters in ways that are both powerful and unexpected. Wheeler’s prose is, as always, stunning. He doesn’t just tell a story—he evokes feeling with every page. The way he explores the complex world of the characters, the subtle politics of the Invisible College, and the creeping danger of the Aesir, all while threading in philosophical questions about the nature of power and communication, is masterful.
What stood out to me most—beyond the high-stakes plot and fascinating magical concepts—was the emotional depth and vulnerability woven into McKenna’s journey. As a deaf woman in a world where sound is central to power, communication, and even warfare, McKenna grapples with her place in it all. Her deafness is not romanticized; at times, she feels the weight of it as a painful limitation. Wheeler doesn’t shy away from showing the grief and frustration that can come with that. And yet, McKenna’s resilience is stunning. She continues to support those around her, to trust her instincts, and to wield her intelligence and growing magical insight with grace. Her arc is not just one of survival, but of self-acceptance and emerging strength.
Wheeler’s use of language in this book is truly remarkable. I was especially moved by how he illustrates McKenna’s love for certain words—not because she hears them, but because of their shape, their meaning, the way they feel on her tongue or settle in her memory. These moments are intimate and poetic, offering a different kind of sensory experience that adds layers to her perspective. It’s such a unique and touching way to explore language through a different lens, and it gave me goosebumps more than once.
Professor Robinson Hawksley—Rob—is another standout. As a scholar and inventor, Rob is visionary and determined, but he’s also deeply human. What I appreciated most was the balance Wheeler strikes in Rob’s character: he’s not just the “genius inventor” trope. He’s a husband, a protector, and a man trying to navigate responsibility and love in a world that’s shifting beneath his feet. His relationship with McKenna is beautifully written—deeply affectionate, marked by quiet moments of respect and tension, and layered with unspoken fears. Their dynamic feels like the emotional spine of the story.
The supporting characters truly round out the emotional landscape of this book. McKenna’s sister is fiery, opinionated, and full of heart—always ready to protect her family even when she doesn’t fully understand the paths McKenna and Rob are walking. Wickins doesn’t seek the spotlight, but his quiet support and unwavering friendship add depth to Rob’s arc. He’s the kind of character who slips into your heart without fanfare—always present, always steady, and ready when it counts. There’s a tension between them that feels real, born of love and fear colliding. Her parents, too, are given space to be more than background figures. They each carry grief in different ways, shaped by the changes in their daughter’s life and their own roles in a society that values things McKenna cannot access.
The rest of the cast is equally compelling. The scholars and students at the Invisible College, the enemies lurking in the shadows, and the mysterious Aesir threat all add depth and complexity to the plot. No one feels one-dimensional, and every character seems to carry a hidden motive or vulnerability, which makes the world feel richly lived-in.
Jeff Wheeler
The Violence of Sound is more than a fantasy novel—it’s a story about the things that connect us when voices can’t be heard, the quiet resilience found in silence, and about the dangerous beauty of invention. With lyrical writing, powerful themes, and unforgettable characters, Jeff Wheeler has created something truly special.
What stood out to me most—beyond the high-stakes plot and fascinating magical concepts—was the emotional depth and vulnerability woven into McKenna’s journey. As a deaf woman in a world where sound is central to power, communication, and even warfare, McKenna grapples with her place in it all. Her deafness is not romanticized; at times, she feels the weight of it as a painful limitation. Wheeler doesn’t shy away from showing the grief and frustration that can come with that. And yet, McKenna’s resilience is stunning. She continues to support those around her, to trust her instincts, and to wield her intelligence and growing magical insight with grace. Her arc is not just one of survival, but of self-acceptance and emerging strength.
Wheeler’s use of language in this book is truly remarkable. I was especially moved by how he illustrates McKenna’s love for certain words—not because she hears them, but because of their shape, their meaning, the way they feel on her tongue or settle in her memory. These moments are intimate and poetic, offering a different kind of sensory experience that adds layers to her perspective. It’s such a unique and touching way to explore language through a different lens, and it gave me goosebumps more than once.
Professor Robinson Hawksley—Rob—is another standout. As a scholar and inventor, Rob is visionary and determined, but he’s also deeply human. What I appreciated most was the balance Wheeler strikes in Rob’s character: he’s not just the “genius inventor” trope. He’s a husband, a protector, and a man trying to navigate responsibility and love in a world that’s shifting beneath his feet. His relationship with McKenna is beautifully written—deeply affectionate, marked by quiet moments of respect and tension, and layered with unspoken fears. Their dynamic feels like the emotional spine of the story.
The supporting characters truly round out the emotional landscape of this book. McKenna’s sister is fiery, opinionated, and full of heart—always ready to protect her family even when she doesn’t fully understand the paths McKenna and Rob are walking. Wickins doesn’t seek the spotlight, but his quiet support and unwavering friendship add depth to Rob’s arc. He’s the kind of character who slips into your heart without fanfare—always present, always steady, and ready when it counts. There’s a tension between them that feels real, born of love and fear colliding. Her parents, too, are given space to be more than background figures. They each carry grief in different ways, shaped by the changes in their daughter’s life and their own roles in a society that values things McKenna cannot access.
The rest of the cast is equally compelling. The scholars and students at the Invisible College, the enemies lurking in the shadows, and the mysterious Aesir threat all add depth and complexity to the plot. No one feels one-dimensional, and every character seems to carry a hidden motive or vulnerability, which makes the world feel richly lived-in.
Jeff WheelerThe Violence of Sound is more than a fantasy novel—it’s a story about the things that connect us when voices can’t be heard, the quiet resilience found in silence, and about the dangerous beauty of invention. With lyrical writing, powerful themes, and unforgettable characters, Jeff Wheeler has created something truly special.
April 13, 2025
This book has a lot going for it, intricate world-building, a fantastic and unique magic system, and a society grappling with the constant threat of war with a magical race known as the Aeiser. It’s clear a lot of thought and care went into building this world, and it shines in many places. The premise, as described in the synopsis "A husband and wife brought together by magic strive to stop a war of the worlds in an epic adventure of hope, sorcery, and secrets", promises an action-packed, fast-paced narrative, where both McKenna and Robinson are at the forefront of battle. But that’s where it fell a bit flat for me.
Instead of the high-stakes adventure described, the story focused more on the everyday life within a world living under constant looming danger. This isn’t a bad thing — in fact, the exploration of how people adapt, survive, and resist under pressure was compelling and well-written. But the mismatch between the synopsis and the story made the slower pacing and introspective tone feel jarring at times.
The magic system itself is genuinely creative. A beautiful blend of music, sounds and tone, to call upon sentient animal-like intelligences.
The history is a great concept — The Aeiser hibernate for centuries at a time, unable to survive outside of the cold of winter. During these long periods of hibernation, humanity continued to grow and expand across the world. What was once a peaceful coexistence slowly shifted — as humans developed and claimed more of the world, the Aeiser began to see them as a threat. This growing tension eventually sparked the war that now defines the conflict in the story. The world is imaginative and complex, and the ongoing war does give the story tension, though it simmers rather than boils.
The relationship between the main characters, Robinson and McKenna, began in the first book (The Invisible College) and continues here. While their dynamic has its moments, I felt the development of their relationship in book one, was rushed and it doesn't feel like they are as deeply connected in this book as you feel they should be. It feels a little surface level.
McKenna stands out as the strongest character in both books. She is deaf, which was due to an illness created by the Aeiser, to reduce humans ability to use magic. This meant that many people in society would dismiss and discriminate against her. She could read body language and lips well and due to her family's privileged position, was tutored on how to develop her language skills so she could be ‘accepted’ into society – though her drive and determination came from wanting to learn how to use magic. I wish more time had been spent on this.
By the end of the book, things seemed to be ramping up, a lot of the story elements were connecting, hinting that book three might deliver the building action. I’m still on the fence about continuing the series, but I do think there will be many people who love this book and do recommend it. Hopefully book three leans into the story that’s been simmering beneath the surface.
ARC audio copy from NetGalley and 47North.
Instead of the high-stakes adventure described, the story focused more on the everyday life within a world living under constant looming danger. This isn’t a bad thing — in fact, the exploration of how people adapt, survive, and resist under pressure was compelling and well-written. But the mismatch between the synopsis and the story made the slower pacing and introspective tone feel jarring at times.
The magic system itself is genuinely creative. A beautiful blend of music, sounds and tone, to call upon sentient animal-like intelligences.
The history is a great concept — The Aeiser hibernate for centuries at a time, unable to survive outside of the cold of winter. During these long periods of hibernation, humanity continued to grow and expand across the world. What was once a peaceful coexistence slowly shifted — as humans developed and claimed more of the world, the Aeiser began to see them as a threat. This growing tension eventually sparked the war that now defines the conflict in the story. The world is imaginative and complex, and the ongoing war does give the story tension, though it simmers rather than boils.
The relationship between the main characters, Robinson and McKenna, began in the first book (The Invisible College) and continues here. While their dynamic has its moments, I felt the development of their relationship in book one, was rushed and it doesn't feel like they are as deeply connected in this book as you feel they should be. It feels a little surface level.
McKenna stands out as the strongest character in both books. She is deaf, which was due to an illness created by the Aeiser, to reduce humans ability to use magic. This meant that many people in society would dismiss and discriminate against her. She could read body language and lips well and due to her family's privileged position, was tutored on how to develop her language skills so she could be ‘accepted’ into society – though her drive and determination came from wanting to learn how to use magic. I wish more time had been spent on this.
By the end of the book, things seemed to be ramping up, a lot of the story elements were connecting, hinting that book three might deliver the building action. I’m still on the fence about continuing the series, but I do think there will be many people who love this book and do recommend it. Hopefully book three leans into the story that’s been simmering beneath the surface.
ARC audio copy from NetGalley and 47North.
February 18, 2025
In this second installment of The Invisible College series, the reader once more is reunited with Robinson and McKenna. Robinson is able to use sound and music to cast spells; he is a wizard at the College. He has fallen in love with and married McKenna who suffered total hearing loss caused by a "plague" released by the mysterious and seemingly destructive Aesir race that only appears during the winter months. McKenna very much wants to be a part of the Invisible College but is unable to do so because of her hearing impairment: though she speaks very clearly and communicates by reading lips, there seems to be no way for her to cast a spell, even when she knows the words, because she cannot hear.
This is not terribly discouraging to me because Wheeler's worlds are built upon unexpected gifts through supernatural powers, as we have seen in his other series, such as the Kingfountain, Muirwood, and others. There is a higher power that surpasses the human mind and often times is revealed in miraculous ways—as McKenna begins to experience powers she was hitherto been unaware of, the reader can safely surmise that the higher power has plans for this strong, dedicated, and caring young woman of integrity and bravery.
Robinson is dedicated (as an elocutionist) to assist McKenna overcome the obstacles of deafness to realize her dreams, while he is also very much committed to defeating the Aesir, who are difficult to track, see or hear until it is too late. Having lost his brother to the scourge of the Aesir, Robinson is not terribly strong himself, though he has survived the enemy's onslaught. But what he may lack in physical strength, he more than makes up for with his intelligence and his ability to use magic in a variety of ways. For example, he can play the violin and control the actions of those around him with the instrument through the melodies, pace, and intensity of his music. And his new invention may finally give the advantage to the military to discover and defeat the Aesir as they move to attack.
Beside the Aesir (who can take over a human's body without that person's appearance changing—called Semblances), there are other dark powers at work—one secret group wants to welcome the Aesir (through a concerted rebellious contingent of society that believe they should capitulate to the enemy); there are also other "players" within the government and military who seem to have a personal (and not honorable) stake in how the war proceeds/plays out.
So typical of the excellent writing and spellbinding creative genius apparent in the worlds he creates for the reader, Wheeler spins his tale with finesse, providing subtle foreshadowing that is almost impossible to detect, and characters that we can root for, care for...as well as villains of several kinds that create havoc, suspense, and a rumbling sense of intrigue as the pages turn and surprises (good and bad) are discovered at every turn.
The ending of this "installment" is definitely a cliffhanger on one hand, but also presents an enormous revelation on the other. The cliffhanger does not worry me—I have faith in the author's intent and "record" in his treatment of these very real characters. However, it is enlightenment delivered through the military officer Crossthwaite, in charge of seeking out Semblances within society and the military, that adds an entirely new layer to the story. It is in the last few pages that readers will be thrilled to discover another dimension of this struggle between good and evil that we could not have foreseen.
I LOVE how Wheeler uses music in this story—certainly most of us can agree that music can be very powerful. Mr. Wheeler, however, imbues it with power beyond entertainment, giving it a supernatural ability to create spells, enrapture audiences, and stop criminals (in their tracks) who hear him play. The concept of "the violence of sound" infers to the "other side" of sound, not at all musical in nature, that can be destructive. What a fertile imagination this author has.
I am happy to recommend this book. I was able to read it on NetGalley in advance. I cannot wait for the third book! Wheeler does not disappoint!!
This is not terribly discouraging to me because Wheeler's worlds are built upon unexpected gifts through supernatural powers, as we have seen in his other series, such as the Kingfountain, Muirwood, and others. There is a higher power that surpasses the human mind and often times is revealed in miraculous ways—as McKenna begins to experience powers she was hitherto been unaware of, the reader can safely surmise that the higher power has plans for this strong, dedicated, and caring young woman of integrity and bravery.
Robinson is dedicated (as an elocutionist) to assist McKenna overcome the obstacles of deafness to realize her dreams, while he is also very much committed to defeating the Aesir, who are difficult to track, see or hear until it is too late. Having lost his brother to the scourge of the Aesir, Robinson is not terribly strong himself, though he has survived the enemy's onslaught. But what he may lack in physical strength, he more than makes up for with his intelligence and his ability to use magic in a variety of ways. For example, he can play the violin and control the actions of those around him with the instrument through the melodies, pace, and intensity of his music. And his new invention may finally give the advantage to the military to discover and defeat the Aesir as they move to attack.
Beside the Aesir (who can take over a human's body without that person's appearance changing—called Semblances), there are other dark powers at work—one secret group wants to welcome the Aesir (through a concerted rebellious contingent of society that believe they should capitulate to the enemy); there are also other "players" within the government and military who seem to have a personal (and not honorable) stake in how the war proceeds/plays out.
So typical of the excellent writing and spellbinding creative genius apparent in the worlds he creates for the reader, Wheeler spins his tale with finesse, providing subtle foreshadowing that is almost impossible to detect, and characters that we can root for, care for...as well as villains of several kinds that create havoc, suspense, and a rumbling sense of intrigue as the pages turn and surprises (good and bad) are discovered at every turn.
The ending of this "installment" is definitely a cliffhanger on one hand, but also presents an enormous revelation on the other. The cliffhanger does not worry me—I have faith in the author's intent and "record" in his treatment of these very real characters. However, it is enlightenment delivered through the military officer Crossthwaite, in charge of seeking out Semblances within society and the military, that adds an entirely new layer to the story. It is in the last few pages that readers will be thrilled to discover another dimension of this struggle between good and evil that we could not have foreseen.
I LOVE how Wheeler uses music in this story—certainly most of us can agree that music can be very powerful. Mr. Wheeler, however, imbues it with power beyond entertainment, giving it a supernatural ability to create spells, enrapture audiences, and stop criminals (in their tracks) who hear him play. The concept of "the violence of sound" infers to the "other side" of sound, not at all musical in nature, that can be destructive. What a fertile imagination this author has.
I am happy to recommend this book. I was able to read it on NetGalley in advance. I cannot wait for the third book! Wheeler does not disappoint!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews