What do you think?
Rate this book
Eyes of Awakening #2
Tree of Eyes
Critically-acclaimed sequel to Eye in the Blue Box. Expert character development and deep explorations of friendship and love amplify this saga’s intensity.
THE STRONG WILL AID THE WEARY.
The tree of eyes stands black and jagged in the white of the Desert.
Tears of grief have watered its roots …
Violence, gore, intense scenes.
Instances of abuse.
This book is NOT a romantasy.
Eye in the Blue Box: Book One of Eyes of Awakening
Tree of Eyes: Book Two of Eyes of Awakening
THE STRONG WILL AID THE WEARY.
The tree of eyes stands black and jagged in the white of the Desert.
Tears of grief have watered its roots …
Blood, blades, and a kiss ended James and Crew Blue’s stay in the City. Now, they are trapped in the dangerous and unpredictable territories of No Man’s Land with the Third Shaman hot on their tail.
But they must somehow find a way back into the greater planes of the Flowering and fast, for James’s watch is growing blacker, and the Red Calf’s return is drawing nearer with every passing moment. Should the crew fail to kill this ancient monster, it will destroy everything, from humans to citizens to the very planes.
Join James in the grand finale of his journey as he, at last, discovers the origins of the Flowering and uncovers the remaining mysteries of the eye in the blue box. Friends will become enemies and enemies, friends. Pride will push dark memories back into the light. And betrayals will unveil shocking realities. James will fight with all his strength to protect the friends and family he loves. The strong must aid the weary now more than ever.
But not without sacrifice.
CONTENT INCLUDES:
Violence, gore, intense scenes.
Instances of abuse.
This book is NOT a romantasy.
READING ORDER:
Eye in the Blue Box: Book One of Eyes of Awakening
Tree of Eyes: Book Two of Eyes of Awakening
- GenresFantasy
383 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 31, 2026
About the author
Ann Yihyang Kim
2 books18 followersSubscribe to Ann's blog for updates, behind-the-scenes material, and more. If you like her work, please drop her a review on Goodreads and Amazon and follow her on Instagram!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
May 6, 2026
Tree of Eyes: Eyes of Awakening by Ann Yihyang Kim is the second installment and picks up with James and Crew Blue in the middle of chaos. They are stuck in No Man’s Land. It’s not enough that James is already overwhelmed in both Reality and in the Flowering. There is tension coming from all sides, not just from the enemies. E has to make some harsh decisions, while Snow is desperately trying to go back for Zilch. The others are stuck between trying to be loyal to each other and surviving. All of this is happening as Kim adds an extra layer of lore about Shamans, citizens, and the Red Calf’s growing threat. As the stakes rise, the group is fighting to stay alive and struggling to remain a united front.
I love Ann Yihyang Kim’s writing style. She does a great job blending fast-paced action and character reflection. The story doesn’t slow down either. The battles make the scenes move along quickly. But she’s also mindful enough to keep the details intact to help readers understand what is happening. The dialogue reveals all the tension. I could see the cracks forming among the group, especially between E and Snow. I love how more of the world’s rules are gradually introduced, such as how the Shamans work and where the citizens come from. It doesn’t feel like random information dumping. Book two feels heavier than book one, but still consistent. The immersive storytelling is still there, but this time, the focus is more on consequences, tougher choices, and strained relationships.
Some of my favorite parts of the story were when Kim began explaining how the Flowering works and the old ways. The past mirrors the present. We get to see how greed led to wars, partnerships with the moulded, and the creation of the Beast. These things also seem to affect how each character processes them. James is proud of what his group is doing or has accomplished, but he’s also frustrated at the same time because of how things fell apart in the past. Deeper into the narrative, James and Snow reveal some things about E’s past, and I felt how heavy this weighed on the group. Phoenix, in particular, really struggles to process it.
Kim really added a sense of urgency, especially by the time we get to chapter thirteen. The danger shifts, and so does the tension. Readers will probably be surprised at the betrayals, especially surrounding Blood Crow. Then the introduction of Copperhead adds another layer of uncertainty. Things begin to spiral so quickly from failed plans, shifting alliances, and major connections. There were so many jaw-dropping moments, including what’s really been going on about the Third.
Overall, Tree of Eyes: Eyes of the Awakening (Book Two) does a great job building on the foundation of the first book. The stakes are higher, the world-building is deeper, and the emotional weight has increased. It feels like a continuation but also a turning point. Kim’s writing leans heavily into layered lore, but it still has those modern fantasy elements. Readers who are familiar with Tracy Deonn’s Legendborn will find that same blend of action and personal conflicts. But Kim’s really stands out because of the unique world structure.
I love Ann Yihyang Kim’s writing style. She does a great job blending fast-paced action and character reflection. The story doesn’t slow down either. The battles make the scenes move along quickly. But she’s also mindful enough to keep the details intact to help readers understand what is happening. The dialogue reveals all the tension. I could see the cracks forming among the group, especially between E and Snow. I love how more of the world’s rules are gradually introduced, such as how the Shamans work and where the citizens come from. It doesn’t feel like random information dumping. Book two feels heavier than book one, but still consistent. The immersive storytelling is still there, but this time, the focus is more on consequences, tougher choices, and strained relationships.
Some of my favorite parts of the story were when Kim began explaining how the Flowering works and the old ways. The past mirrors the present. We get to see how greed led to wars, partnerships with the moulded, and the creation of the Beast. These things also seem to affect how each character processes them. James is proud of what his group is doing or has accomplished, but he’s also frustrated at the same time because of how things fell apart in the past. Deeper into the narrative, James and Snow reveal some things about E’s past, and I felt how heavy this weighed on the group. Phoenix, in particular, really struggles to process it.
Kim really added a sense of urgency, especially by the time we get to chapter thirteen. The danger shifts, and so does the tension. Readers will probably be surprised at the betrayals, especially surrounding Blood Crow. Then the introduction of Copperhead adds another layer of uncertainty. Things begin to spiral so quickly from failed plans, shifting alliances, and major connections. There were so many jaw-dropping moments, including what’s really been going on about the Third.
Overall, Tree of Eyes: Eyes of the Awakening (Book Two) does a great job building on the foundation of the first book. The stakes are higher, the world-building is deeper, and the emotional weight has increased. It feels like a continuation but also a turning point. Kim’s writing leans heavily into layered lore, but it still has those modern fantasy elements. Readers who are familiar with Tracy Deonn’s Legendborn will find that same blend of action and personal conflicts. But Kim’s really stands out because of the unique world structure.
April 17, 2026
Tree of Eyes by Ann Yihyang Kim is a dark, high-intensity fantasy sequel that deepens an already complex mythological universe through heightened emotional stakes, expanded world-building, and escalating moral conflict.
As the continuation of Eye in the Blue Box, the novel immediately situates readers in a fractured landscape where survival is no longer guaranteed and trust is increasingly unstable. The setting of No Man’s Land functions as both a physical and psychological battleground, reinforcing themes of displacement, pursuit, and existential uncertainty.
The narrative follows James and Crew Blue as they attempt to navigate a collapsing balance between planes, with the looming threat of the Red Calf serving as an apocalyptic catalyst. This introduces a strong sense of urgency, where the stakes extend beyond individual survival to the potential annihilation of multiple realms.
One of the book’s defining strengths is its commitment to escalation. Emotional relationships are constantly tested under pressure, leading to shifting alliances and betrayals that reshape the reader’s understanding of character loyalty. The line between friend and enemy is deliberately blurred, reinforcing a core theme of instability in both interpersonal and cosmic structures.
The mythology of the “Flowering” and the “Tree of Eyes” is expanded in this installment, providing deeper context to the series’ metaphysical framework. These elements are not merely decorative lore but serve as active forces that influence character decisions and narrative direction.
Tonally, the book leans into darker fantasy territory, emphasizing violence, sacrifice, and psychological strain. The absence of romantic framing allows the narrative to focus more directly on survival, duty, and the cost of resistance against overwhelming forces.
Tree of Eyes ultimately succeeds as a high stakes fantasy continuation that prioritizes mythic scale, emotional intensity, and narrative escalation, making it well-suited for readers who prefer darker, more complex fantasy sagas with strong continuity and expanding lore systems.
As the continuation of Eye in the Blue Box, the novel immediately situates readers in a fractured landscape where survival is no longer guaranteed and trust is increasingly unstable. The setting of No Man’s Land functions as both a physical and psychological battleground, reinforcing themes of displacement, pursuit, and existential uncertainty.
The narrative follows James and Crew Blue as they attempt to navigate a collapsing balance between planes, with the looming threat of the Red Calf serving as an apocalyptic catalyst. This introduces a strong sense of urgency, where the stakes extend beyond individual survival to the potential annihilation of multiple realms.
One of the book’s defining strengths is its commitment to escalation. Emotional relationships are constantly tested under pressure, leading to shifting alliances and betrayals that reshape the reader’s understanding of character loyalty. The line between friend and enemy is deliberately blurred, reinforcing a core theme of instability in both interpersonal and cosmic structures.
The mythology of the “Flowering” and the “Tree of Eyes” is expanded in this installment, providing deeper context to the series’ metaphysical framework. These elements are not merely decorative lore but serve as active forces that influence character decisions and narrative direction.
Tonally, the book leans into darker fantasy territory, emphasizing violence, sacrifice, and psychological strain. The absence of romantic framing allows the narrative to focus more directly on survival, duty, and the cost of resistance against overwhelming forces.
Tree of Eyes ultimately succeeds as a high stakes fantasy continuation that prioritizes mythic scale, emotional intensity, and narrative escalation, making it well-suited for readers who prefer darker, more complex fantasy sagas with strong continuity and expanding lore systems.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book for free as an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
This was an excellent action-packed conclusion to the Eyes of Awakening series that took all of the twists from book 1 and grew the characters in amazing ways. Beyond growth in combat effectiveness, each character undergoes profound emotional, relational, and intellectual development.
Importantly, this book provides the reader a front row seat on how the abused can be freed from an abuser through loving and caring friends. As the chapters progress, you can see how the small conversations from friends slowly help the abused see the unhealthy relationship that they are in. It also addresses why people in abusive relationships cannot simply just leave as there are so many internal conflicts to wrestle through.
Critically, it also shows, from the abused perspective, some of the tactics and actions of an abuser, which can help the reader recognize and see the warning signs in their own lives or those around them.
The highest praise I can give this book is that it was more than entertaining; it changed how I see and would address abusive relationships. I understand now why one cannot "simply leave" the relationship. I understand that helping in an abusive relationship will mean cycles of progress and regression. I understand that I will never truly understand what they have gone through and what they are wrestling with.
I eagerly anticipate book 3 to see how Ann Yihyang Kim further expands the richly fabricated world, resolves the lingering conflicts, and reconciles the fractured relationships that deserve mending.
This was an excellent action-packed conclusion to the Eyes of Awakening series that took all of the twists from book 1 and grew the characters in amazing ways. Beyond growth in combat effectiveness, each character undergoes profound emotional, relational, and intellectual development.
Importantly, this book provides the reader a front row seat on how the abused can be freed from an abuser through loving and caring friends. As the chapters progress, you can see how the small conversations from friends slowly help the abused see the unhealthy relationship that they are in. It also addresses why people in abusive relationships cannot simply just leave as there are so many internal conflicts to wrestle through.
Critically, it also shows, from the abused perspective, some of the tactics and actions of an abuser, which can help the reader recognize and see the warning signs in their own lives or those around them.
The highest praise I can give this book is that it was more than entertaining; it changed how I see and would address abusive relationships. I understand now why one cannot "simply leave" the relationship. I understand that helping in an abusive relationship will mean cycles of progress and regression. I understand that I will never truly understand what they have gone through and what they are wrestling with.
I eagerly anticipate book 3 to see how Ann Yihyang Kim further expands the richly fabricated world, resolves the lingering conflicts, and reconciles the fractured relationships that deserve mending.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have received this book for free as an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving this honest review!
If you haven’t read Book One you should probably read it first!
What an adventure. Tree of Eyes picks up right where we left off in Eye in the Blue Box and is non-stop until the end. The various conflicts and backstory between the core characters and new characters can seem much at first, but all work together to flesh out Crew Blue more and give deeper character development as they overcome seemingly endless obstacles, both mentally and physically, in preparation for facing off with the dreaded Red Calf. With the amount of tension that was built up in anticipation of facing the monster, the ensuing battle scene did not disappoint, and the Kim’s writing immerses you into the moment so fully that by the end of everything, you can almost tangibly feel Crew Blue’s exhaustion. In the chapters that follow, though many threads from the first book are resolved in a satisfying conclusion and there is much growth seen in our main characters, there is still lingering pain within Crew Blue from different losses and experiences during their arduous quest, and some unanswered questions that leave room for a potential future installment in the universe of Eyes of Awakening. Here’s to hoping for another adventure with Crew Blue in the near future!
If you haven’t read Book One you should probably read it first!
What an adventure. Tree of Eyes picks up right where we left off in Eye in the Blue Box and is non-stop until the end. The various conflicts and backstory between the core characters and new characters can seem much at first, but all work together to flesh out Crew Blue more and give deeper character development as they overcome seemingly endless obstacles, both mentally and physically, in preparation for facing off with the dreaded Red Calf. With the amount of tension that was built up in anticipation of facing the monster, the ensuing battle scene did not disappoint, and the Kim’s writing immerses you into the moment so fully that by the end of everything, you can almost tangibly feel Crew Blue’s exhaustion. In the chapters that follow, though many threads from the first book are resolved in a satisfying conclusion and there is much growth seen in our main characters, there is still lingering pain within Crew Blue from different losses and experiences during their arduous quest, and some unanswered questions that leave room for a potential future installment in the universe of Eyes of Awakening. Here’s to hoping for another adventure with Crew Blue in the near future!
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Dreams can be amazing until you wake up to face reality.”
First, I cannot begin to express how much I loved this book. The first one was a rollercoaster ride and, for a few chapters, I thought this one would be a smoother one. But, oh dear! I am happy I was proven wrong! If you were wondering, how much can the dreamland converge with reality or mirror it? These and many other questions are answered: we learn much more about the other character’s pasts, about the Flowering, and about the Beast.
There are new challenges, new creatures, new friends, and new foes. Heartfelt family reunions and painful memories are revealed.
Similarly to book one, the action and fight sequences were so exciting that they made me teary-eyed. Ann also paints beautiful images while taking you from one setting or dimension to another. I really hope someday it gets adapted to a visual media, such as graphic novel (Webtoon)!
As I was thinking how there is potential for so much more of this literary universe, I got to the end where Ann tells us there will be a third book. I am very much looking forward to it!
I have received this book for free as an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
First, I cannot begin to express how much I loved this book. The first one was a rollercoaster ride and, for a few chapters, I thought this one would be a smoother one. But, oh dear! I am happy I was proven wrong! If you were wondering, how much can the dreamland converge with reality or mirror it? These and many other questions are answered: we learn much more about the other character’s pasts, about the Flowering, and about the Beast.
There are new challenges, new creatures, new friends, and new foes. Heartfelt family reunions and painful memories are revealed.
Similarly to book one, the action and fight sequences were so exciting that they made me teary-eyed. Ann also paints beautiful images while taking you from one setting or dimension to another. I really hope someday it gets adapted to a visual media, such as graphic novel (Webtoon)!
As I was thinking how there is potential for so much more of this literary universe, I got to the end where Ann tells us there will be a third book. I am very much looking forward to it!
I have received this book for free as an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an ARC reader and am leaving my honest review. My first language is Korean, so I'm posting this review in Korean and using Google translate for English.
1편에 이은 더할수 없이 잘 묘사된, 마치 영화를 보는듯한, 때로는 조마조마하고 때로는 통쾌한 액션은 두말할 필요가 없는 잘써진 문장들. 거기에 더해 인간사회의 가장 기본이자 중요한, 가슴 절절하면서 따뜻하게 풀어나간 가족들의 사랑. 또한 젊은이들의 심금을 울리는 남녀들의 사랑과 의리 이야기가 더해 지면서 한장한장 페이지를 넘길때마다 어떤 새로운 이야기가 펼쳐질까 하는 기대감과, 그 기대를 저버리지 않는 새로운 재미가 가득한 2편 또한 진짜 잘 짜여지고 잘 써진, 저자의 역량이 돋보이는 더할나위 없는 또 하나의 걸작이다.
Following the first installment, the story is beautifully crafted, cinematic, sometimes thrilling, and the action is at times extremely delightful. The well-written prose goes without saying. Add to that the heartwarming yet poignant portrayal of familial love, the most fundamental and essential aspect of human society. Add to that a story of love and loyalty between men and women that resonate with young people, and you'll find yourself anticipating what new story will unfold with each turn of the page. This second installment, filled with fresh excitement and awe, lives up to that expectation. This truly well crafted and well written work is another unparalleled masterpiece, showcasing the author's talent.
1편에 이은 더할수 없이 잘 묘사된, 마치 영화를 보는듯한, 때로는 조마조마하고 때로는 통쾌한 액션은 두말할 필요가 없는 잘써진 문장들. 거기에 더해 인간사회의 가장 기본이자 중요한, 가슴 절절하면서 따뜻하게 풀어나간 가족들의 사랑. 또한 젊은이들의 심금을 울리는 남녀들의 사랑과 의리 이야기가 더해 지면서 한장한장 페이지를 넘길때마다 어떤 새로운 이야기가 펼쳐질까 하는 기대감과, 그 기대를 저버리지 않는 새로운 재미가 가득한 2편 또한 진짜 잘 짜여지고 잘 써진, 저자의 역량이 돋보이는 더할나위 없는 또 하나의 걸작이다.
Following the first installment, the story is beautifully crafted, cinematic, sometimes thrilling, and the action is at times extremely delightful. The well-written prose goes without saying. Add to that the heartwarming yet poignant portrayal of familial love, the most fundamental and essential aspect of human society. Add to that a story of love and loyalty between men and women that resonate with young people, and you'll find yourself anticipating what new story will unfold with each turn of the page. This second installment, filled with fresh excitement and awe, lives up to that expectation. This truly well crafted and well written work is another unparalleled masterpiece, showcasing the author's talent.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book for free as an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
An amazing sequel to Eye in the Blue Box! Tree of Eyes is packed with twists and turns, and delves deeper into the world of the Flowering. I loved learning more about the lore and origin of the Flowering. The plot twists and reveals were very satisfying.
One of the highlights of Tree of Eyes is getting to learn more about the characters and their backstories, especially E. The author skillfully depicts raw and poignant scenes that really shed light on the characters’ motivations and personalities. We also get to meet some new furry friends, much to my delight.
Tree of Eyes culminates in a final action-packed battle that kept me on my toes. I couldn’t put it down! Can’t wait for more adventures with Crew Blue!
An amazing sequel to Eye in the Blue Box! Tree of Eyes is packed with twists and turns, and delves deeper into the world of the Flowering. I loved learning more about the lore and origin of the Flowering. The plot twists and reveals were very satisfying.
One of the highlights of Tree of Eyes is getting to learn more about the characters and their backstories, especially E. The author skillfully depicts raw and poignant scenes that really shed light on the characters’ motivations and personalities. We also get to meet some new furry friends, much to my delight.
Tree of Eyes culminates in a final action-packed battle that kept me on my toes. I couldn’t put it down! Can’t wait for more adventures with Crew Blue!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Spectacular sequel to the EOA series!! Ann Yihyang Kim continues her powerfully imaginative and descriptive writing, thrusting readers towards the suspenseful and thrilling final battle.
But not only that, Tree of Eyes also dives deep into the complexities of relationships, the heart-wrenching tension as well as connection and life's bittersweet memories. As the high stakes of the Flowering bleed into life outside it, Kim does a phenomenal job seamlessly bridging this surreal dreamworld and the concreteness of reality, which left me reflecting on my own life as well.
In just two books my heart has grown so fond of the members of Crew Blue and each of their development within and towards one another. From bloody battles to subtle acts of tender care - this book has it all. Highly recommend!!
But not only that, Tree of Eyes also dives deep into the complexities of relationships, the heart-wrenching tension as well as connection and life's bittersweet memories. As the high stakes of the Flowering bleed into life outside it, Kim does a phenomenal job seamlessly bridging this surreal dreamworld and the concreteness of reality, which left me reflecting on my own life as well.
In just two books my heart has grown so fond of the members of Crew Blue and each of their development within and towards one another. From bloody battles to subtle acts of tender care - this book has it all. Highly recommend!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have received this book for free as an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
Tree of Eyes: Book Two of Eyes of Awakening is a satisfying sequel to Eye in the Blue Box. The characters are well developed and easy to emphasize with as their arcs progress. What I find most enjoyable is the unique world of the Flowering. Stakes are often high in the Flowering but whether it be death, politics, transportation or even entertainment the Flowering plays by much different rules than real life. As a result the journey James and the rest take through the Flowering is truly unique work of fiction and exciting to read.
Tree of Eyes: Book Two of Eyes of Awakening is a satisfying sequel to Eye in the Blue Box. The characters are well developed and easy to emphasize with as their arcs progress. What I find most enjoyable is the unique world of the Flowering. Stakes are often high in the Flowering but whether it be death, politics, transportation or even entertainment the Flowering plays by much different rules than real life. As a result the journey James and the rest take through the Flowering is truly unique work of fiction and exciting to read.
Read
January 10, 2026I have received this book for free as an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
What a gripping book! Tree of Eyes: Book Two is definitely worth a read! The plot keeps you on the edge of your seat. I love seeing how the main character continues to develop. The introduction of new characters allows new insights into the new world the main character finds himself in. The book is especially poignant since it addresses real-world situations and allows the reader to connect and empathize with the characters. The author does a wonderful job of fleshing out the characters. You can understand why they perform the actions that they do.
Truly an awesome read!
What a gripping book! Tree of Eyes: Book Two is definitely worth a read! The plot keeps you on the edge of your seat. I love seeing how the main character continues to develop. The introduction of new characters allows new insights into the new world the main character finds himself in. The book is especially poignant since it addresses real-world situations and allows the reader to connect and empathize with the characters. The author does a wonderful job of fleshing out the characters. You can understand why they perform the actions that they do.
Truly an awesome read!
June 27, 2026
A stunning and fast-paced finish! My favorite scene in this book was when all the main characters met in real life before their final battle.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book for free as an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this second volume of Ann’s series, The Eyes of Awakening. The Tree of Eyes provided excellent plot twists, action-packed chapters, and incredible, long-awaited explanations. Along with the growing plot and unceasing action, old characters are growing through the challenges they face, while new characters are added in, bringing along unexpected twists and problems that are relatable to some. Again, the plot is impressively intricate, with the same and new subplots, theories, challenges, and long-awaited answers impeccably intertwined. Throughout the book, the characters, conflict, and chain of events merge together to create a captivating, action-packed, and insightful story, one that people can relate to, and one that will be much enjoyed by those who love dark fantasy. I await the next book with rising anticipation!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this second volume of Ann’s series, The Eyes of Awakening. The Tree of Eyes provided excellent plot twists, action-packed chapters, and incredible, long-awaited explanations. Along with the growing plot and unceasing action, old characters are growing through the challenges they face, while new characters are added in, bringing along unexpected twists and problems that are relatable to some. Again, the plot is impressively intricate, with the same and new subplots, theories, challenges, and long-awaited answers impeccably intertwined. Throughout the book, the characters, conflict, and chain of events merge together to create a captivating, action-packed, and insightful story, one that people can relate to, and one that will be much enjoyed by those who love dark fantasy. I await the next book with rising anticipation!
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews