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The Broken Citadel #2
The Beasts We Raise
Not yet published
Expected 24 Feb 26Marry her enemy. Save her realm. Forsake her heart. The heart-shattering conclusion to this dark romantasy duology is perfect for fans of Adrienne Young, Tricia Levenseller, and Brigid Kemmerer.
Newly-appointed Prime Mancella is desperate to keep the peace within her realm and within herself. Having recently acquired the power to physically split into separate versions of herself, her identity is beginning to fracture―along with her land, which is on the brink of war. The only semblance of normalcy in her life is her budding romance with thief-turned-confidant, Silver. . . at least until the mysterious Prime Reltas arrives at her doorstep asking, or rather demanding, her hand in marriage.
If Mance wants to avoid a fight that will devastate her realm, she’ll have to consider the proposal. Even if it destroys Silver. But Mance isn't ready to give up just yet. Desperate to free herself from the betrothal, Mance must seek allyship from other Primes and learn to control her new magic. If she fails, her decision to refuse Reltas's proposal will implode the delicate state of affairs across the realms, setting off a catastrophic war―and shatter two hearts in the process.
Newly-appointed Prime Mancella is desperate to keep the peace within her realm and within herself. Having recently acquired the power to physically split into separate versions of herself, her identity is beginning to fracture―along with her land, which is on the brink of war. The only semblance of normalcy in her life is her budding romance with thief-turned-confidant, Silver. . . at least until the mysterious Prime Reltas arrives at her doorstep asking, or rather demanding, her hand in marriage.
If Mance wants to avoid a fight that will devastate her realm, she’ll have to consider the proposal. Even if it destroys Silver. But Mance isn't ready to give up just yet. Desperate to free herself from the betrothal, Mance must seek allyship from other Primes and learn to control her new magic. If she fails, her decision to refuse Reltas's proposal will implode the delicate state of affairs across the realms, setting off a catastrophic war―and shatter two hearts in the process.
288 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication March 3, 2026
5 people are currently reading
1217 people want to read
About the author
D.L. Taylor
3 books205 followersD.L. Taylor is an attorney by trade. She’s worked in criminal defense and civil non-profit law, but writing has always had a special hold on her heart. Though she hails from the sunny lands of California, she married a Midwestern boy and ended up settling down outside Chicago. She has three kids, two cats, and minimal sanity, but in the quiet hours before dawn she likes to write about magic, mischief, and moral quandaries. The Beasts We Bury is her debut.
If you'd like to know more, her handle is dltaylorbooks on TikTok and Instagram.
If you'd like to know more, her handle is dltaylorbooks on TikTok and Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
September 24, 2025
4 ⭐️ Review to come. ❤️
December 1, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the audio arc of this book! The first book ends on a cliffhanger so I was happy to get my hands on this. I think Silver is the perfect golden retriever mmc. The story moves really fast and you can feel the emotions and angst. I did question some of the other characters actions (like all the other primes and some of the decisions they made) and some of the twists were predictable but this was all around an enjoyable easy read. The narrators did a good job adding to the story, although I wish it had been a duet because that’s really the superior audio book listening experience
July 24, 2025
ੈ✩‧₊˚ Review ~
Thank you to Netgalley & Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for providing me with this ARC ! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
So..funny story, I actually requested this book without realising it was the second book to The Broken Citadel duology (I'm so smart guys 😭), so I read the first one, and I loved it, I'm not kidding, I ate it up and finished it in a couple days.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Spoilers for The Beasts We Bury ahead ! ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥
So the last book ends on a cliffhanger after we find out that Silver & Mancella's happily ever after wasn't so... happy. At least, not for Mancella. After taking Alect's power and gaining the ability to split herself into seperate forms, we learn that she's been suppressing/locking up one particular form of herself in her wardrobe. Livid, who is basically a manifestation of her anger and all the dark, furious parts of her.
'TBWR' is a very fast paced book, maybe a little TOO fast but it was still slow enough for me to keep up. I definitley feel like this book could've been longer ? And while the resolution was pretty abrupt, it was still a nice ending.
⋆.ೃ࿔*:･ Mancella ⋆.ೃ࿔*:･
Mancella's denial and fear of turning into her father throughout this book was VERY obvious, constantly doubting herself and locking away Livid because she was struggling with the pressure of becoming the Prime, and terrified of becoming the tyrant ruler her father was. Because of that, she also pushed Silver away (MAJOR MISTAKE GIRL HE'S SUCH A SWEETHEART) and hid things from him. It's also really sad to see her doubt herself, trying really hard to avoid war and bloodshed, and trying to put her realm's safety above her own happiness.
ੈ✩‧₊˚ Silver ੈ✩‧₊˚
Silver is so cute through this entire book, he's one of the only people who sees Mace falling apart, and all her broken parts and different forms but still loves and supports her. His character is VERY different to the usual MMC's that I read, but he's powerful in his own way. His friendship with Vie and Rooftop was also hilarious and wholesome throughout the duology, and it's really clear that he basically sees them as family.
Thank you to Netgalley & Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for providing me with this ARC ! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
So..funny story, I actually requested this book without realising it was the second book to The Broken Citadel duology (I'm so smart guys 😭), so I read the first one, and I loved it, I'm not kidding, I ate it up and finished it in a couple days.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Spoilers for The Beasts We Bury ahead ! ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥
So the last book ends on a cliffhanger after we find out that Silver & Mancella's happily ever after wasn't so... happy. At least, not for Mancella. After taking Alect's power and gaining the ability to split herself into seperate forms, we learn that she's been suppressing/locking up one particular form of herself in her wardrobe. Livid, who is basically a manifestation of her anger and all the dark, furious parts of her.
'TBWR' is a very fast paced book, maybe a little TOO fast but it was still slow enough for me to keep up. I definitley feel like this book could've been longer ? And while the resolution was pretty abrupt, it was still a nice ending.
⋆.ೃ࿔*:･ Mancella ⋆.ೃ࿔*:･
Mancella's denial and fear of turning into her father throughout this book was VERY obvious, constantly doubting herself and locking away Livid because she was struggling with the pressure of becoming the Prime, and terrified of becoming the tyrant ruler her father was. Because of that, she also pushed Silver away (MAJOR MISTAKE GIRL HE'S SUCH A SWEETHEART) and hid things from him. It's also really sad to see her doubt herself, trying really hard to avoid war and bloodshed, and trying to put her realm's safety above her own happiness.
ੈ✩‧₊˚ Silver ੈ✩‧₊˚
Silver is so cute through this entire book, he's one of the only people who sees Mace falling apart, and all her broken parts and different forms but still loves and supports her. His character is VERY different to the usual MMC's that I read, but he's powerful in his own way. His friendship with Vie and Rooftop was also hilarious and wholesome throughout the duology, and it's really clear that he basically sees them as family.
September 22, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for providing me with an eARC of this book. It is the concluding book to The Broken Citadel duology and comes out February 2026. All opinions are my own.
Spoilers Ahead (if you haven’t read The Beasts we Bury)
Mance and Silver find themselves in the aftermath of a war torn Continent left behind by the former Prime. Mance, as the new Prime of the Cliff Realm, wants to prove to everyone, including herself that she is nothing like her father. As she gets used to her newly acquired power of personality splitting, she locks away a part of herself she doesn’t like and continues to split herself into other emotions in order to keep her own council. Tensions between her and Silver are mounting as he senses her distance and it gets worse when the Prime of the Forest Realm comes demanding her hand in marriage as part of their “prior treaty.” To prevent the imminent war, Mance agrees and goes with him to the Forest Realm in order to bide time and find another solution, but what she finds could mean death and destruction for everything she knows and loves.
At first I was a little disoriented by the completely new direction this story took. That’s not to say the first book isn’t informative to this story, but this is its own complete and different storyline. Though Silver and Mance had sweet moments, this story was more about Mance, and her coming to terms with who she is as a whole and accepting that. I thought that was done very well. I liked the POV chapters from the different Mance emotions, I thought that was an interesting way to tell the story. The descriptions of some of the magic that Reltas (and Kiar) performed were horrific and so vivid and disturbing, I really felt sorry for him and what he went through to make him get to that point. The idea of the magic system and its corruption was also very interesting especially when tied to his hate and need for vengeance. “Your hate and vengeance are destroying everyone—“ I the ending was satisfying and funnily enough, it reminded me of the Let Them Theory philosophies I just spent the last few weeks reading through. Overall I enjoyed the fresh take on POVs, the messages in this story, the expanded magic system and how it played into the plot, and the characters themselves, a win all around.
“We may not get to choose the beasts that our parents—that life buries in our hearts…but we do get to choose the beasts we raise.”
Spoilers Ahead (if you haven’t read The Beasts we Bury)
Mance and Silver find themselves in the aftermath of a war torn Continent left behind by the former Prime. Mance, as the new Prime of the Cliff Realm, wants to prove to everyone, including herself that she is nothing like her father. As she gets used to her newly acquired power of personality splitting, she locks away a part of herself she doesn’t like and continues to split herself into other emotions in order to keep her own council. Tensions between her and Silver are mounting as he senses her distance and it gets worse when the Prime of the Forest Realm comes demanding her hand in marriage as part of their “prior treaty.” To prevent the imminent war, Mance agrees and goes with him to the Forest Realm in order to bide time and find another solution, but what she finds could mean death and destruction for everything she knows and loves.
At first I was a little disoriented by the completely new direction this story took. That’s not to say the first book isn’t informative to this story, but this is its own complete and different storyline. Though Silver and Mance had sweet moments, this story was more about Mance, and her coming to terms with who she is as a whole and accepting that. I thought that was done very well. I liked the POV chapters from the different Mance emotions, I thought that was an interesting way to tell the story. The descriptions of some of the magic that Reltas (and Kiar) performed were horrific and so vivid and disturbing, I really felt sorry for him and what he went through to make him get to that point. The idea of the magic system and its corruption was also very interesting especially when tied to his hate and need for vengeance. “Your hate and vengeance are destroying everyone—“ I the ending was satisfying and funnily enough, it reminded me of the Let Them Theory philosophies I just spent the last few weeks reading through. Overall I enjoyed the fresh take on POVs, the messages in this story, the expanded magic system and how it played into the plot, and the characters themselves, a win all around.
“We may not get to choose the beasts that our parents—that life buries in our hearts…but we do get to choose the beasts we raise.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2025
This is the second book in the Broken Citadel series and omg did it not disappoint. This book picked up right where the Beasts We Bury leaves off and I was once again hooked with Mance and Silvers journey. Without giving too much away we follow both characters as they uncover the truths behind generations of hatred and work to restore what was broken. Thank you so much to NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review!
August 18, 2025
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This book is gonna make you rage, wanna tear out your hair, scream into the void, pick fights with your partner, anything to get the aggression out.
It’s soooo much more than a YA novel.
I usually do a little blurb in my reviews but for this I want to talk more about the emotions.
If I had to describe this book in one sentence “the meeting of righteous fury with devious and evil actions.”
This books begs you to think about what it does to take your pain and suffering and then cause that same pain to others?
Is it revenge if you hurt everyone?
How far will you take your quest for revenge and who are you willing to sacrifice?
What does it do to an entire people when their sole focus is hurting others for revenge?
Can you heal from what you caused?
Our FMC, Mance, is dealing with the fall out of taking her father’s crown as a Prime. She is splitting herself, different aspects of her personality, into separate sentient and corporeal beings.
She can call them back and merge them with herself and share memories. They are separate but also one.
She is trying to use this power to make safe her kingdom when she is forced to marry an enemy that hates her.
However, it’s getting more and more painful to separate and to call back.
I’ve heard DL talk about how this book is suppose to be about trauma, it is uncomfortable, it should not feel easy or good. You should ask yourself questions and you should be able to sympathize and empathize with the pain. The types of trauma that the main characters go through at the hands of those in power, at the hands of those who are suppose to protect you, at the hands of those who are suppose to love you, can be seen as a mirror for so many different types of relationships in the modern world we live in.
I think that the self-reflection you do while reading this book and specifically getting to the ending it’s also very healing and necessary.
This book is gonna make you rage, wanna tear out your hair, scream into the void, pick fights with your partner, anything to get the aggression out.
It’s soooo much more than a YA novel.
I usually do a little blurb in my reviews but for this I want to talk more about the emotions.
If I had to describe this book in one sentence “the meeting of righteous fury with devious and evil actions.”
This books begs you to think about what it does to take your pain and suffering and then cause that same pain to others?
Is it revenge if you hurt everyone?
How far will you take your quest for revenge and who are you willing to sacrifice?
What does it do to an entire people when their sole focus is hurting others for revenge?
Can you heal from what you caused?
Our FMC, Mance, is dealing with the fall out of taking her father’s crown as a Prime. She is splitting herself, different aspects of her personality, into separate sentient and corporeal beings.
She can call them back and merge them with herself and share memories. They are separate but also one.
She is trying to use this power to make safe her kingdom when she is forced to marry an enemy that hates her.
However, it’s getting more and more painful to separate and to call back.
I’ve heard DL talk about how this book is suppose to be about trauma, it is uncomfortable, it should not feel easy or good. You should ask yourself questions and you should be able to sympathize and empathize with the pain. The types of trauma that the main characters go through at the hands of those in power, at the hands of those who are suppose to protect you, at the hands of those who are suppose to love you, can be seen as a mirror for so many different types of relationships in the modern world we live in.
I think that the self-reflection you do while reading this book and specifically getting to the ending it’s also very healing and necessary.
January 15, 2026
3.5
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for the opportunity to read this book as an e-arc!!
We continue off the first book with the father being imprisoned and Mance as the Prime. We learn of her new ability to split herself into different personalities that can live outside of her being. Silver and Mance are together and struggling to find their footing as a couple. Until Prime Reltas enters.
A treaty was signed under Mance’s father that Mance would marry Prime Reltas for the good of the realm. Of course she’s not wanting this due to Silver, but if she doesn’t she risks sending the realms to war again.
Seeing Mance navigate this new position, talent, and relationship was a lot. I enjoyed the book, seeing how she splits her personalities was fresh and really interesting concept. I liked seeing the animals fall into position with a certain personality as well. This was a good read but I don’t think it’s one I will come back to. I wasn’t sure how this book would end but enjoyed the direction it’s leading into. Character development was good but it did feel a little lacking.
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for the opportunity to read this book as an e-arc!!
We continue off the first book with the father being imprisoned and Mance as the Prime. We learn of her new ability to split herself into different personalities that can live outside of her being. Silver and Mance are together and struggling to find their footing as a couple. Until Prime Reltas enters.
A treaty was signed under Mance’s father that Mance would marry Prime Reltas for the good of the realm. Of course she’s not wanting this due to Silver, but if she doesn’t she risks sending the realms to war again.
Seeing Mance navigate this new position, talent, and relationship was a lot. I enjoyed the book, seeing how she splits her personalities was fresh and really interesting concept. I liked seeing the animals fall into position with a certain personality as well. This was a good read but I don’t think it’s one I will come back to. I wasn’t sure how this book would end but enjoyed the direction it’s leading into. Character development was good but it did feel a little lacking.
August 3, 2025
Let’s talk about the magic system in The Beasts We Raise by D.L. Taylor, because WOW. What a concept! It’s not a world where people are just given power, they have to earn it, which I found compelling and inspiring. Taylor does a great job making everything feel higher stakes and intense. The complexity pulled me in fast, and the world building was so well done. I loved how the setting itself became part of the emotional journey—like every challenge in this world was quietly asking, how far are you willing to go to forgive yourself?
Watching Mancella wrestle with inner conflict and trauma while trying to survive this brutal world was as raw as it was captivating.
And when I say this book had me in a chokehold, I’m not exaggerating. I read it like something might explode if I stopped. Thank you to NetGalley and the Author for the opportunity
Watching Mancella wrestle with inner conflict and trauma while trying to survive this brutal world was as raw as it was captivating.
And when I say this book had me in a chokehold, I’m not exaggerating. I read it like something might explode if I stopped. Thank you to NetGalley and the Author for the opportunity
July 18, 2025
2.75⭐️
First, I want to thank NetGalley, Macmillan Publishing and D. L. Taylor for the ARC!
This was a highly anticipated sequel release but I’m left feeling disappointed. The outline of the story had real potential- especially with the character/emotion study on the FMC. However, the plot felt underdeveloped. Things moved too quickly without proper planning or elaboration. It felt like peaks of the plot were just a speed bump. I feel if things were explored more, the story would have been rounded out perfectly. I was just left unsatisfied and wanting more.
First, I want to thank NetGalley, Macmillan Publishing and D. L. Taylor for the ARC!
This was a highly anticipated sequel release but I’m left feeling disappointed. The outline of the story had real potential- especially with the character/emotion study on the FMC. However, the plot felt underdeveloped. Things moved too quickly without proper planning or elaboration. It felt like peaks of the plot were just a speed bump. I feel if things were explored more, the story would have been rounded out perfectly. I was just left unsatisfied and wanting more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2026
Même si je n’ai lu que le tome deux, je trouve la plume incroyable et l’histoire trop bien.
J’ai adoré Silver, Mance avec toute ses facettes.
Certains perso non merci mais une histoire que j’ai vraiment apprécié.
Je pense que je vais lire le tome un.
XOXO,
Cippy
J’ai adoré Silver, Mance avec toute ses facettes.
Certains perso non merci mais une histoire que j’ai vraiment apprécié.
Je pense que je vais lire le tome un.
XOXO,
Cippy
Want to read
June 30, 2025Thank you to NetGalley & Macmillan children’s publishing group for this eARC! Can’t wait!
Publication date: March 3, 2026
Publication date: March 3, 2026
July 21, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
When I tell you this book had me in a chokehold, I’m not even close to exaggerating. The progression of magic, tension and world building was phenomenal and I just could not put it down for fear of FOMO 😂
The magical system in this series is like nothing I’ve ever read or even seen in movies. I love the complexity of it and that nobody is born with their magic. Mancella, the FMC, goes through a lot of inner turmoil during this book and it was incredibly fascinating to watch her growth but also look at it through my therapist lense (no spoilers because it would give info from the first book!) 🤫
🚫 spice
🚫 language
‼️ triggers: some graphic death, grief, inner struggles, trauma responses
Thank you so much to D.L. Taylor for offering this ARC on NetGalley - it was my very first one and it didn’t disappoint at all!
If you haven’t read The Beasts We Bury yet, do it before the year is over…because The Beasts We Raise comes out March 2026! 👏🏻
When I tell you this book had me in a chokehold, I’m not even close to exaggerating. The progression of magic, tension and world building was phenomenal and I just could not put it down for fear of FOMO 😂
The magical system in this series is like nothing I’ve ever read or even seen in movies. I love the complexity of it and that nobody is born with their magic. Mancella, the FMC, goes through a lot of inner turmoil during this book and it was incredibly fascinating to watch her growth but also look at it through my therapist lense (no spoilers because it would give info from the first book!) 🤫
🚫 spice
🚫 language
‼️ triggers: some graphic death, grief, inner struggles, trauma responses
Thank you so much to D.L. Taylor for offering this ARC on NetGalley - it was my very first one and it didn’t disappoint at all!
If you haven’t read The Beasts We Bury yet, do it before the year is over…because The Beasts We Raise comes out March 2026! 👏🏻
August 11, 2025
I am so grateful to have received a EARC of this book from NetGalley and Wow. This book was such a beautiful read. The second book in this series following Mance and Silver as the main two characters and the way their story builds and comes to a close at the end was absolutely beautiful. The hardships they go through and The love Silver has for Mance. The way this story unfolds in such a way I’ve never read before. It was such a good read and I definitely recommend this for those wanting a little something different in the fantasy world. Beautifully written.
December 4, 2025
Prime Mancella must make tough decisions to keep the peace and save her people... and it might cost her love.
Thank you to D.L. Taylor, Netgalley, and MacMillan Audio for the ARC audio of this book.
I really enjoyed this duology and the fact I got to listen to both of them as ARCs. Mance is a young adult who was raised by a broken royal system. Her father was cruel, her mother distant, and her sister holding secrets. When she finally blows it all up to reveal the secrets, she takes charge of her life and her kingdom, and finds a romantic companion. But then Prime Reltas throws a wrench in her peace keeping plans by forcing her into an engagement she cannot break. When chaos ensues, she is left to make the toughest decision of all.
I was sat for this entire book! I went through emotions of being proud of Mance, to having her decisions, to feeling bad for her, all through this book. I also hurt for Silver, precious Silver. He just wanted to love and be loved. I love the way this book ends and the sort of conclusion we get to the story. I like tidy endings and this one leaves you with wanting a little more of a conclusion. But I like it either way.
A great YA magical fantasy, with a spot here and there of romance. Though there is no explicit romantic scenes. This is definitely safe for teens to read and enjoy as long as you don't mind some violence depicted (as with the first book).
Thank you to D.L. Taylor, Netgalley, and MacMillan Audio for the ARC audio of this book.
I really enjoyed this duology and the fact I got to listen to both of them as ARCs. Mance is a young adult who was raised by a broken royal system. Her father was cruel, her mother distant, and her sister holding secrets. When she finally blows it all up to reveal the secrets, she takes charge of her life and her kingdom, and finds a romantic companion. But then Prime Reltas throws a wrench in her peace keeping plans by forcing her into an engagement she cannot break. When chaos ensues, she is left to make the toughest decision of all.
I was sat for this entire book! I went through emotions of being proud of Mance, to having her decisions, to feeling bad for her, all through this book. I also hurt for Silver, precious Silver. He just wanted to love and be loved. I love the way this book ends and the sort of conclusion we get to the story. I like tidy endings and this one leaves you with wanting a little more of a conclusion. But I like it either way.
A great YA magical fantasy, with a spot here and there of romance. Though there is no explicit romantic scenes. This is definitely safe for teens to read and enjoy as long as you don't mind some violence depicted (as with the first book).
August 25, 2025
I think I liked this novel even more than the first book in the duology! I thought the magic system was really fun and unique. I really enjoyed the world-building and overall plot. There are some complex characters that had me yelling “nooo!! What are you thinking!?”. I had to remind myself that this is written for a younger audience. I appreciated the overall message of this book (to accept yourself for who you are and the overall focus on healing).
Thank you to Macmillan Publishing Group, Henry Holt & Co., D.L. Taylor, and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Publication date: February 24, 2026
Thank you to Macmillan Publishing Group, Henry Holt & Co., D.L. Taylor, and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Publication date: February 24, 2026
July 21, 2025
This is my first ARC book; my thanks go to D.L Taylor for letting me read her 2nd book early I appreciate it very much!
I liked this book more than her 1st one because you got more background information on other characters as well as Mancella you got to see deeper into her about the different emotions/ her split selves, you also got to see Silver in a different point of view than in the 1st book, the plot was excellent it kept you intrigued and wanting to keep reading, I had a very hard time putting it down. I’m a little disappointed you didn’t see much about Vie and Rooftop as you did in book 1, I wanted them to be more present in this one least be supportive background characters towards Silver. All in all, I’d recommend this book to others as it’s a very good read and will keep you interested in finding out what happens at the end.
I liked this book more than her 1st one because you got more background information on other characters as well as Mancella you got to see deeper into her about the different emotions/ her split selves, you also got to see Silver in a different point of view than in the 1st book, the plot was excellent it kept you intrigued and wanting to keep reading, I had a very hard time putting it down. I’m a little disappointed you didn’t see much about Vie and Rooftop as you did in book 1, I wanted them to be more present in this one least be supportive background characters towards Silver. All in all, I’d recommend this book to others as it’s a very good read and will keep you interested in finding out what happens at the end.
September 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5 stars)
I really liked this one! I enjoyed the first book, but this felt even stronger. The way it explored dealing with trauma after the fact was so powerful. By the end it leaned a little too hard into the theme (not much left to interpret for yourself), but overall I loved the concept.
The magic system?? Obsessed. I loved how it reflected what the wielder was struggling with when they entered the Broken Citadel. Such a cool, creative idea that made the world feel so alive.
Now…confession time. I just cannot with Silver. 😅 He gave me the ick the entire time and I felt zero chemistry between him and Mance. The romance felt so forced, and honestly I would’ve preferred no romance at all. (Lowkey kept hoping for a little spark between Mance and Reltas instead 👀✨). Vie and Kiar also drove me up the wall. They just came across super petulant and annoying.
The plot itself was really engaging, and I was hooked all the way through. A strong follow-up that builds beautifully on book one, with rich themes and a compelling world.
Thanks to NetGalley and MacMillan Children’s Publishing Group for the ARC!
I really liked this one! I enjoyed the first book, but this felt even stronger. The way it explored dealing with trauma after the fact was so powerful. By the end it leaned a little too hard into the theme (not much left to interpret for yourself), but overall I loved the concept.
The magic system?? Obsessed. I loved how it reflected what the wielder was struggling with when they entered the Broken Citadel. Such a cool, creative idea that made the world feel so alive.
Now…confession time. I just cannot with Silver. 😅 He gave me the ick the entire time and I felt zero chemistry between him and Mance. The romance felt so forced, and honestly I would’ve preferred no romance at all. (Lowkey kept hoping for a little spark between Mance and Reltas instead 👀✨). Vie and Kiar also drove me up the wall. They just came across super petulant and annoying.
The plot itself was really engaging, and I was hooked all the way through. A strong follow-up that builds beautifully on book one, with rich themes and a compelling world.
Thanks to NetGalley and MacMillan Children’s Publishing Group for the ARC!
December 24, 2025
I loved the first Broken Citadel book and couldn’t wait to hear more of Mance and Silver’s story. I was thrilled to receive an arc from the publisher and NetGalley.
While the first half of The Beasts We Raise didn’t grab my attention like the first book did, the second half had much more action and pace. The idea of completely detaching emotions from oneself is an interesting thought experiment. If we could completely expel emotions and/or certain parts of us from ourselves, what would happen? Would we even be the same person?
Although I find viewing ourselves as parts interesting and accurate, I think we all have parts of ourselves and sometimes even different masks or versions of ourselves we show to different people, Mance splitting into different entities and acting as if they aren’t part of her (especially Livid) felt off to me. Heart, Livid, Asset, and Poise are all parts of Mance; not their own beings. I felt the story would have been more interesting if Mance had just split off her “dark” self. Rather than having multiple parts of Mance narrating chapters it might have been more interesting to have half the chapters in Livid’s POV.
The message came across crystal clear though: the whole is greater than the parts. No person is just one emotion or other, we are who we are because of all our emotions and experiences. We need all of our parts and emotions to function as a complete person. We can’t, nor should we try to, completely separate ourselves from parts/emotions we don’t like: it doesn’t end well. The other major theme: self-acceptance. If we accept all of our parts we can grow and face our fears and challenges.
With Mance’s rage and passion (Livid) absent, I could feel her lack of drive and that defining rebellious hope she had in the first book. Not until the end of the book when Mance remerged with all her parts and accepted herself as a whole did I see that same badass character who knew what she believed in and fought for it even if it went against what she was taught and told.
I also loved that Silver became the hero he didn’t think he could be. The person who feared not being enough was the first to realize we are enough when we have love and self acceptance on our side. I loved that Silver was the one to realize that people pull out what they think they need in their darkest moment from the broken citadel’s magic, it’s not the citadel that chooses the power. It was great to see so many people from different realms working together in the end to turn something that instilled reverence and deep rooted fear in all of them into a future beacon of hope and light.
I’m so glad I got the chance to read the second installment of The Broken Citadel series. It may have started a bit slower than expected but kept me hooked the whole way , had me asking myself many deep questions about identity and emotions, and ended with what I see as the most powerful message there could be: love yourself for who you are for that is where your true power comes from.
While the first half of The Beasts We Raise didn’t grab my attention like the first book did, the second half had much more action and pace. The idea of completely detaching emotions from oneself is an interesting thought experiment. If we could completely expel emotions and/or certain parts of us from ourselves, what would happen? Would we even be the same person?
Although I find viewing ourselves as parts interesting and accurate, I think we all have parts of ourselves and sometimes even different masks or versions of ourselves we show to different people, Mance splitting into different entities and acting as if they aren’t part of her (especially Livid) felt off to me. Heart, Livid, Asset, and Poise are all parts of Mance; not their own beings. I felt the story would have been more interesting if Mance had just split off her “dark” self. Rather than having multiple parts of Mance narrating chapters it might have been more interesting to have half the chapters in Livid’s POV.
The message came across crystal clear though: the whole is greater than the parts. No person is just one emotion or other, we are who we are because of all our emotions and experiences. We need all of our parts and emotions to function as a complete person. We can’t, nor should we try to, completely separate ourselves from parts/emotions we don’t like: it doesn’t end well. The other major theme: self-acceptance. If we accept all of our parts we can grow and face our fears and challenges.
With Mance’s rage and passion (Livid) absent, I could feel her lack of drive and that defining rebellious hope she had in the first book. Not until the end of the book when Mance remerged with all her parts and accepted herself as a whole did I see that same badass character who knew what she believed in and fought for it even if it went against what she was taught and told.
I also loved that Silver became the hero he didn’t think he could be. The person who feared not being enough was the first to realize we are enough when we have love and self acceptance on our side. I loved that Silver was the one to realize that people pull out what they think they need in their darkest moment from the broken citadel’s magic, it’s not the citadel that chooses the power. It was great to see so many people from different realms working together in the end to turn something that instilled reverence and deep rooted fear in all of them into a future beacon of hope and light.
I’m so glad I got the chance to read the second installment of The Broken Citadel series. It may have started a bit slower than expected but kept me hooked the whole way , had me asking myself many deep questions about identity and emotions, and ended with what I see as the most powerful message there could be: love yourself for who you are for that is where your true power comes from.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, Henry Holt and Co. (BYR), Macmillan Audio, Macmillan Young Listeners, D. L. Taylor, Brenda Scott Wlazlo (audio narrator), and Jake Chronister (audio narrator) for the opportunity to read and listen to the audiobook of The Beasts We Raise in exchange for an honest review.
‼️SPOILERS if you have not read The Beasts We Bury‼️
Mancella struggles to keep peace both within her fractured realm and within herself (if you know how the first book ended). Gifted with the dangerous power to split into multiple versions of herself based on the various parts that make up who she is, Mance’s identity is unraveling just as war hangs over the edge. One wrong move as Prime, and it's over. Her only refuge is her budding romance with Silver, a thief turned confidant—until the formidable Prime Reltas arrives, demanding her hand in marriage. Mancella must marry her enemy in order to save her realm, since she is now Prime. That also means forsaking her heart.
Accepting Reltas’s proposal could prevent a devastating war… but at the cost of Silver’s heart and her own. Refusing it could shatter the fragile balance between realms. Determined to reclaim her fate, Mance seeks alliances among the Primes and struggles to master her dangerous manifestation magic. If she fails, her defiance will ignite a terrible war—and leave hearts broken beyond repair. When the Citadel seems like the ultimate answer for either side, will the power be abused?
The Beasts We Raise concludes this dark fantasy duology. The writing is great and seeing the physical manifestation of Mance's internal conflict is intriguing. I continue to root for Silver, but Mance's new position as Prime offers a lot of political intrigue to this second installment. One must also find an appreciation for the title and the literal and figurative aspects it explores in the novel and as a theme.
An excellent duology for lovers of strained romance and dark fantasy.
‼️SPOILERS if you have not read The Beasts We Bury‼️
Mancella struggles to keep peace both within her fractured realm and within herself (if you know how the first book ended). Gifted with the dangerous power to split into multiple versions of herself based on the various parts that make up who she is, Mance’s identity is unraveling just as war hangs over the edge. One wrong move as Prime, and it's over. Her only refuge is her budding romance with Silver, a thief turned confidant—until the formidable Prime Reltas arrives, demanding her hand in marriage. Mancella must marry her enemy in order to save her realm, since she is now Prime. That also means forsaking her heart.
Accepting Reltas’s proposal could prevent a devastating war… but at the cost of Silver’s heart and her own. Refusing it could shatter the fragile balance between realms. Determined to reclaim her fate, Mance seeks alliances among the Primes and struggles to master her dangerous manifestation magic. If she fails, her defiance will ignite a terrible war—and leave hearts broken beyond repair. When the Citadel seems like the ultimate answer for either side, will the power be abused?
The Beasts We Raise concludes this dark fantasy duology. The writing is great and seeing the physical manifestation of Mance's internal conflict is intriguing. I continue to root for Silver, but Mance's new position as Prime offers a lot of political intrigue to this second installment. One must also find an appreciation for the title and the literal and figurative aspects it explores in the novel and as a theme.
An excellent duology for lovers of strained romance and dark fantasy.
July 25, 2025
The Beasts We Raise is a short and emotional read. It picks up a few months after the end of the first book, The Beasts We Bury, and follows Mancella and Silver as they attempt to find their places in the wake of the former Prime’s downfall. While Mance struggles with maintaining a perfect image as her magic splits her apart, Silver is left trying to discover where he truly belongs. With an unavoidable marriage proposal, the looming threat of war, and secrets that are locked away, The Beasts We Raise made for a promising sequel and conclusion to The Broken Citadel duology.
I found the magic system in this duology to be more on the unique side of all the books I’ve read. I especially found Mancella’s ability to split herself into physical copies that represent her individual sides—such as Heart or Livid—interesting. There’s plenty of emotion throughout the book—Reltas’ anger, Silver’s doubt, Mance’s fears and worries—though it does seem like a lot of the emotional trauma the characters go through is passed over and forgotten too easily. The romance is sweet; I liked how Mance and Silver can depend on and care for each other, as well as how they are willing to accept one another no matter what.
The book itself was a decent conclusion to the duology. It was a quick read, though it felt like there could’ve been more in some places (the ending seemed quite sudden, and I wish there had been more on the Broken Citadel). There were several twists I didn’t see coming, and the ending, though a little abrupt, was hopeful and satisfying enough. I did enjoy it, though I don’t see myself rereading this duology very often.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for the eARC and the opportunity to read early.
I found the magic system in this duology to be more on the unique side of all the books I’ve read. I especially found Mancella’s ability to split herself into physical copies that represent her individual sides—such as Heart or Livid—interesting. There’s plenty of emotion throughout the book—Reltas’ anger, Silver’s doubt, Mance’s fears and worries—though it does seem like a lot of the emotional trauma the characters go through is passed over and forgotten too easily. The romance is sweet; I liked how Mance and Silver can depend on and care for each other, as well as how they are willing to accept one another no matter what.
The book itself was a decent conclusion to the duology. It was a quick read, though it felt like there could’ve been more in some places (the ending seemed quite sudden, and I wish there had been more on the Broken Citadel). There were several twists I didn’t see coming, and the ending, though a little abrupt, was hopeful and satisfying enough. I did enjoy it, though I don’t see myself rereading this duology very often.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for the eARC and the opportunity to read early.
July 28, 2025
2/5⭐️
“…the rules only matter if you plan to keep continue the system as it is.”
“We may not get to choose the beasts that our parents- that life buries in our hearts. But we do get to choose the beasts we raise.”
Firstly, thank you to NetGalley for giving me this ARC, all thoughts are my own🩷
Secondly… this was such a massive let down.
This book starts with Mance and Silver switching places and trusting a random person they just met in which the repercussions of doing so sets the plot for the book up. I promise there are other ways to start a book other than characters betraying their main characteristics.
Are we ever going to find out who the man silver saw in the outskirts was?? He spoke of him like it was an important character we were supposed to know but he wasn’t named or mentioned ever again.
Silver came off so insanely childish during this whole book that it dropped it several stars. He had purpose in the first book and was able to make choices that at least in his mind were justified, and this one? He is simply sad mance isn’t dropping everything for him or reacting wildly to the engagement. Dude is dating (?), whatever they were, a prime, knowing how complicated the politics of which are from the first book. But is shocked and can’t grapple with the fact there’s an arranged marriage. Be upset- but with mance? Being mad she dosnt want to suck tongue every breath in her crazy fiances realm and castle?? Be fr.
Asset isn’t a buzzkill silver she’s just the only one with a couple of braincells.
I liked the overarching theming and messaging but silver really let this fall from where it could’ve been.
“…the rules only matter if you plan to keep continue the system as it is.”
“We may not get to choose the beasts that our parents- that life buries in our hearts. But we do get to choose the beasts we raise.”
Firstly, thank you to NetGalley for giving me this ARC, all thoughts are my own🩷
Secondly… this was such a massive let down.
This book starts with Mance and Silver switching places and trusting a random person they just met in which the repercussions of doing so sets the plot for the book up. I promise there are other ways to start a book other than characters betraying their main characteristics.
Are we ever going to find out who the man silver saw in the outskirts was?? He spoke of him like it was an important character we were supposed to know but he wasn’t named or mentioned ever again.
Silver came off so insanely childish during this whole book that it dropped it several stars. He had purpose in the first book and was able to make choices that at least in his mind were justified, and this one? He is simply sad mance isn’t dropping everything for him or reacting wildly to the engagement. Dude is dating (?), whatever they were, a prime, knowing how complicated the politics of which are from the first book. But is shocked and can’t grapple with the fact there’s an arranged marriage. Be upset- but with mance? Being mad she dosnt want to suck tongue every breath in her crazy fiances realm and castle?? Be fr.
Asset isn’t a buzzkill silver she’s just the only one with a couple of braincells.
I liked the overarching theming and messaging but silver really let this fall from where it could’ve been.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2026
An oddly therapeutic installment, despite the chaos.
The parenting remains absolutely atrocious—somehow getting worse every time—but that’s almost part of the series’ charm at this point. Watching Mance grapple with her *literal* split personalities walking around is both fascinating and unsettling. Honestly, a full team of therapists should’ve been assigned to every Prime ages ago.
That said, I genuinely loved seeing daddy dearest finally get what was coming to him, especially after selling out his child *yet again*. His end felt well-earned and deeply satisfying.
Now newly appointed as Prime Mancella, Mance is desperate to keep the peace—both within her fractured realm and within herself. Her new power to physically split into separate versions is a compelling metaphor for her internal conflict, and the way her identity fractures alongside her land raises the stakes beautifully. Her romance with Silver, thief-turned-confidant, provides the only real sense of normalcy… until Prime Reltas arrives, demanding her hand in marriage.
The political tension ramps up quickly, and Mance’s desperation to avoid a war that could devastate the realms makes her choices feel painfully real. The threat of losing Silver adds emotional weight, even if some of the decisions made along the way are frustrating. Watching her scramble for allies and struggle to control her magic is engaging, if occasionally messy.
Overall, this installment is emotionally charged, narratively ambitious, and deeply flawed in a way that still works. It doesn’t always make you happy—but it definitely keeps you invested.
October 29, 2025
I received this copy for free as an eARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to D. L. Taylor & the publishing company for the free digital copy; Thank you to NetGalley for the chance to read and review this book!
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻
The Beasts We Raise is a perfect conclusion to this duology. This book is about so much more than just the fantasy element. Its about the political aspect, but also the trauma and healing that go with everything Mance went through.
TBWR follows Mancella & Silver, as they work through their new dynamics and Mance learning how to rule. The author put so much thought into these characters and their stories, and I loved the idea of the story being told from her different emotions.
There is political aspects, there's heartbreak. There's healing, and drama. I loved the world she built, and I loved that although there is romance in the story, that it feels more about learning to love yourself and your scars over another person. Learning to accept every part of you, and using that knowledge to be and do better.
The different POVs really gave substance to the characters. I only wish we had more from Livid's POV. All in all, D. L. Taylor truly captured the emotions and turmoil in this story. In the end, nothing is perfect, but it is on its way to being better. Mance has learned to heal from hiding herself, the magic is more balanced, and relations with the realms are on the mend. Its a perfect end to the story, and leaves enough that if she was to write a spinoff, it would be easy to pick up.
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻
The Beasts We Raise is a perfect conclusion to this duology. This book is about so much more than just the fantasy element. Its about the political aspect, but also the trauma and healing that go with everything Mance went through.
TBWR follows Mancella & Silver, as they work through their new dynamics and Mance learning how to rule. The author put so much thought into these characters and their stories, and I loved the idea of the story being told from her different emotions.
There is political aspects, there's heartbreak. There's healing, and drama. I loved the world she built, and I loved that although there is romance in the story, that it feels more about learning to love yourself and your scars over another person. Learning to accept every part of you, and using that knowledge to be and do better.
The different POVs really gave substance to the characters. I only wish we had more from Livid's POV. All in all, D. L. Taylor truly captured the emotions and turmoil in this story. In the end, nothing is perfect, but it is on its way to being better. Mance has learned to heal from hiding herself, the magic is more balanced, and relations with the realms are on the mend. Its a perfect end to the story, and leaves enough that if she was to write a spinoff, it would be easy to pick up.
January 10, 2026
The Beasts we Bury was one book I read that shocked me how much I loved it and the unique nature of the story. Book 2 was much of the same and did not disappoint!
Picking up after the imprisonment of our FMC's father, this installment follows the new Prime as she navigates a power she never asked for while struggling to establish her rule. As she prepares for a political betrothal to Prime Reltas for the good of the realm, she physically splits her consciousness into distinct forms representing her heart, mind, and poise, and more leading to a profound exploration of identity and desire.
The most impressive aspect of the narrative is how these multiple perspectives create a unique and complex romantic web that goes far beyond the tropes of a typical young adult novel. Having different parts of her psyche with their unique personalities and then Silver navigating which version he was getting was my favorite thing about this book. Seeing the animals gravitate toward the specific fragments of her personality they most relate to adds a layer of depth to the world-building that feels entirely fresh, refreshing, and deeply moving.
This book dived deeper into the political scheming of this world while keeping romance elements there as well.
The audio narration captured the emotional weight perfectly. This is a story that demands to be talked about and is such a refreshing and unique fantasy!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing this ALC. Release date 2/24/26.
Picking up after the imprisonment of our FMC's father, this installment follows the new Prime as she navigates a power she never asked for while struggling to establish her rule. As she prepares for a political betrothal to Prime Reltas for the good of the realm, she physically splits her consciousness into distinct forms representing her heart, mind, and poise, and more leading to a profound exploration of identity and desire.
The most impressive aspect of the narrative is how these multiple perspectives create a unique and complex romantic web that goes far beyond the tropes of a typical young adult novel. Having different parts of her psyche with their unique personalities and then Silver navigating which version he was getting was my favorite thing about this book. Seeing the animals gravitate toward the specific fragments of her personality they most relate to adds a layer of depth to the world-building that feels entirely fresh, refreshing, and deeply moving.
This book dived deeper into the political scheming of this world while keeping romance elements there as well.
The audio narration captured the emotional weight perfectly. This is a story that demands to be talked about and is such a refreshing and unique fantasy!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing this ALC. Release date 2/24/26.
December 6, 2025
Rating: 4.5
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Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for proving me with this arc of The Beasts We Raise!!
I definitely like this book so much more than the first. It’s still not quite a 5 star read for me but it was so good. I just feel like a better ending would’ve bumped the rating up. In my opinion, it was missing the action from the first book. However, it was still very cute and touching and I enjoyed reading it.
I also found this book to be much more fast paced and easier to get through than the first. I told myself I was just going to read one more chapter and then couldn’t stop going on, which is always a good sign.
Mancella’s character development and journey of self acceptance was also very interesting to read, and I found myself being able to relate a lot to her feelings of failure. It was nice to see her learn to accept all the parts of herself.
And silver? Don’t even get me started. He is just perfect. I mean, he literally said, and I quote, "I've never wanted your best, though! I want your all, I want your everything! I don't just want to stand next to you when it's all going great; I want to hold you when it's hard!” AND THEN HE SAID "But it's like I told Mance. I don't want just part of you. I want all of you. Every single bit." We need more men like this 🥺
I’m so glad I decided to continue on with the second book. It is a duology, so this will be the last one.
.
.
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Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for proving me with this arc of The Beasts We Raise!!
I definitely like this book so much more than the first. It’s still not quite a 5 star read for me but it was so good. I just feel like a better ending would’ve bumped the rating up. In my opinion, it was missing the action from the first book. However, it was still very cute and touching and I enjoyed reading it.
I also found this book to be much more fast paced and easier to get through than the first. I told myself I was just going to read one more chapter and then couldn’t stop going on, which is always a good sign.
Mancella’s character development and journey of self acceptance was also very interesting to read, and I found myself being able to relate a lot to her feelings of failure. It was nice to see her learn to accept all the parts of herself.
And silver? Don’t even get me started. He is just perfect. I mean, he literally said, and I quote, "I've never wanted your best, though! I want your all, I want your everything! I don't just want to stand next to you when it's all going great; I want to hold you when it's hard!” AND THEN HE SAID "But it's like I told Mance. I don't want just part of you. I want all of you. Every single bit." We need more men like this 🥺
I’m so glad I decided to continue on with the second book. It is a duology, so this will be the last one.
July 16, 2025
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley. As this book is a sequel, I even went back to read the first book on Kindle Unlimited first to make sure I was fair and I didn't miss anything. My review on this book is very similar to the first one...it lacks heart, has a "show don't tell me" problem, the dialogue doesn't seem realistic, and the POVs are out of control.
Starting with the POVs, Mance, the FMC absorbs the power of every animal she kills. At the end of The Beasts we Bury, she ends up with her cousin's power where she can split herself into multiple physical beings based by emotions. For example, she split away her angry side and locked her in prison. This concept is fascinating to me, so I am very disappointed by the poor execution. Most of the chapters are told from one of Mance's personalities. So the story only crawls forward and gets confusing. Also, just like Mance and Silver's POVs don't really sound different, neither do Mance's personality POVs. Instead of telling me someone is poised or angry or happy, show me.
I do appreciate the title, how it connects to the first one, and how it makes sense with the story. I also love the cover art for both books. But ultimately, this book disappointed me. It is slow, lacks twists, and the plot and characters seemed forced. Which is a shame, because it was a great idea.
Rating: 1.5/5
Starting with the POVs, Mance, the FMC absorbs the power of every animal she kills. At the end of The Beasts we Bury, she ends up with her cousin's power where she can split herself into multiple physical beings based by emotions. For example, she split away her angry side and locked her in prison. This concept is fascinating to me, so I am very disappointed by the poor execution. Most of the chapters are told from one of Mance's personalities. So the story only crawls forward and gets confusing. Also, just like Mance and Silver's POVs don't really sound different, neither do Mance's personality POVs. Instead of telling me someone is poised or angry or happy, show me.
I do appreciate the title, how it connects to the first one, and how it makes sense with the story. I also love the cover art for both books. But ultimately, this book disappointed me. It is slow, lacks twists, and the plot and characters seemed forced. Which is a shame, because it was a great idea.
Rating: 1.5/5
July 18, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read this one early (super early 😂)!
So I actually went back and took a peek at my review for book one of this series because I didn’t really remember my thoughts. As soon as I read it, it came back to me. Book 1, THE BEASTS WE BURY was just meh for me. I didn’t dislike it but I also didn’t love it. I didn’t say if I was planning to read the sequel in that review so it seems like I was on the fence.
Anyway, on to this book. It was a quick read. Multiple POVs made the storytelling more interesting but all but one POV are Mance (her different emotions). It seems like the magic system that made up the first book was someone left behind in favor of Mance’s newly acquired power from the end of book one. I was also hoping to learn more about the mysterious Citadel that gives power and that was glossed over as well.
I liked the overall lesson of accepting yourself entirely and I thought the metaphor of splitting herself to learn that was well executed. The romance was cute too.
However, I found the story to be a little boring and it didn’t really connect well to the first book. I missed the found family vibes established in the previous book and I’m not sure if I’d continue to read this if there is a third book (the ending leaves it a little open but also mostly concluded so I can see it going either way).
⭐️⭐️⭐️
So I actually went back and took a peek at my review for book one of this series because I didn’t really remember my thoughts. As soon as I read it, it came back to me. Book 1, THE BEASTS WE BURY was just meh for me. I didn’t dislike it but I also didn’t love it. I didn’t say if I was planning to read the sequel in that review so it seems like I was on the fence.
Anyway, on to this book. It was a quick read. Multiple POVs made the storytelling more interesting but all but one POV are Mance (her different emotions). It seems like the magic system that made up the first book was someone left behind in favor of Mance’s newly acquired power from the end of book one. I was also hoping to learn more about the mysterious Citadel that gives power and that was glossed over as well.
I liked the overall lesson of accepting yourself entirely and I thought the metaphor of splitting herself to learn that was well executed. The romance was cute too.
However, I found the story to be a little boring and it didn’t really connect well to the first book. I missed the found family vibes established in the previous book and I’m not sure if I’d continue to read this if there is a third book (the ending leaves it a little open but also mostly concluded so I can see it going either way).
⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 2, 2026
⭐️⭐️.25/5
The Beasts We Raise is a magical, action-packed YA fantasy sequel.
The Beasts We Raise was one of my most-anticipated reads of 2026 (I devoured book one, The Beasts We Bury), but it fell flat for me. I felt as though book one would have been better written as a standalone, as this book felt a bit unnecessary. I loved the characters in book one; however, in book two, I gradually felt disconnected from them, and many of their actions felt immature or exaggerated. The romance had many swoony moments, but I also found the development to be a bit uncomfortable. The plot was engaging, but the pacing felt rushed, and I longed for a longer story. The world-building was lush and immersive, and the magic system is one of the most creative and captivating I’ve read. D.L. Taylor’s prose was immersive and vivid. Ultimately, I highly recommend book one and recommend book two if you liked book one and want to finish the series.
Brenda Scott Wlazlo and Jake Chronister were fantastic narrators for this one. Their voices fit the characters, emotion, and energy wonderfully. I recommend the audiobook!
Thank you to the publisher for the free ALC!
The Beasts We Raise is a magical, action-packed YA fantasy sequel.
The Beasts We Raise was one of my most-anticipated reads of 2026 (I devoured book one, The Beasts We Bury), but it fell flat for me. I felt as though book one would have been better written as a standalone, as this book felt a bit unnecessary. I loved the characters in book one; however, in book two, I gradually felt disconnected from them, and many of their actions felt immature or exaggerated. The romance had many swoony moments, but I also found the development to be a bit uncomfortable. The plot was engaging, but the pacing felt rushed, and I longed for a longer story. The world-building was lush and immersive, and the magic system is one of the most creative and captivating I’ve read. D.L. Taylor’s prose was immersive and vivid. Ultimately, I highly recommend book one and recommend book two if you liked book one and want to finish the series.
Brenda Scott Wlazlo and Jake Chronister were fantastic narrators for this one. Their voices fit the characters, emotion, and energy wonderfully. I recommend the audiobook!
Thank you to the publisher for the free ALC!
July 27, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan for this eARC!
I actually requested this without realizing it was the second in the Broken Citadel series, so of course I had to read The Beasts We Bury first. I enjoyed both books thoroughly, but loved the conclusion in The Beasts We Raise.
While I enjoyed Mancella, Silver was absolutely my favorite character. His willingness to stick to his guns and also have Mancella's back even when she doesn't realize it is the best. I related to Mancella's battle with acknowledging each part of her, even the "worst" parts.
This was a read that I felt was wrapped up super quickly - it could have been longer? But it was a fast and enjoyable read and a fun, quick duology for anyone who loves characters that aren't flat just because the story is short. I do feel like the duology is what makes it, as I enjoyed the wrap up of this book more than I enjoyed the first book. Lots of stories are tied up and I think it made the world building make more sense as well.
I actually requested this without realizing it was the second in the Broken Citadel series, so of course I had to read The Beasts We Bury first. I enjoyed both books thoroughly, but loved the conclusion in The Beasts We Raise.
While I enjoyed Mancella, Silver was absolutely my favorite character. His willingness to stick to his guns and also have Mancella's back even when she doesn't realize it is the best. I related to Mancella's battle with acknowledging each part of her, even the "worst" parts.
This was a read that I felt was wrapped up super quickly - it could have been longer? But it was a fast and enjoyable read and a fun, quick duology for anyone who loves characters that aren't flat just because the story is short. I do feel like the duology is what makes it, as I enjoyed the wrap up of this book more than I enjoyed the first book. Lots of stories are tied up and I think it made the world building make more sense as well.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
We all have parts of ourselves we hide from others, and this story highlights those parts that Mance allows to be more visible to the world around her and those parts she hides for herself. The sad thing about hiding pieces of yourself is that it will come around in the end, or will certainly come back to bite you. I loved this ending for the duology, because the story keeps you on your toes, asking Which part of Mance am I going to see now?, and allows for more insight into Silver's mind. The visual implants in the story make for an awesome fantasy, whether it is through someone's powers we see action and the world, or a particular scene that haunts our dreams and we can't get out of our heads. D.L. Taylor took the story in a direction I didn't see coming, full of action, turmoil, torture and love, and I'd happily recommend this book to anyone looking for a duology that will keep you hooked.
Thank you to NetGalley and Fierce Reads for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
Thank you to NetGalley and Fierce Reads for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
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