Nghiệt hội

The Bone Season #2

by Samantha Shannon, Lê Minh Đức (Translator)

“Chào mừng trở lại với duệ thành Scion London.
SciLo nhớp nhúa thiêng liêng, tù ngục của tôi, mái ấm của tôi.

London - London đẹp đẽ, bất tử - chưa bao giờ chỉ đơn giản là một "thành phố". Nó đã, và vẫn đang là một sinh vật có sức sống, có hơi thở. Nó giấu kín những bí mật trong thân thể mình, chỉ có những kẻ điên rồ hoặc những người xứng đáng mới có thể tìm ra được.

Trước kia đã có lúc tôi thích thú lao mình vào cái mê cung ấy, thích thú sống trong cảnh thối nát của nó. Trước kia tôi chẳng phải nghĩ ngợi gì mỗi khi ra ngoài, bất chấp đội Vệ Đêm đi tuần trên phố. Tôi kiểm soát được cuộc đời hai mặt của mình, cũng như nhiều thấu thị khác. Nhưng giờ tôi đã biết tôi đang sống trong một thế giới giả tạo, nơi những kẻ điều khiển rối ẩn mình trong bóng tối...”

Là tập thứ 2 trong xê ri Mùa xương, Nghiệt hội tiếp tục đưa người đọc trở lại với hành trình của cô gái Paige Mahoney. Thoát khỏi đặc khu trừng giới Sheol nhưng một lần nữa phải đối mặt với tộc người Rephaite hung hiểm, đám dân vô minh ấu trĩ hèn nhát, chính quyền bù nhìn, và giới thấu thị rã đám khó dò, Paige phải làm gì giữa điệp trùng trở ngại? Cuộc cách mạng của cô liệu có đến được lúc chín muồi?

Genres: Fantasy, Dystopia, Young Adult, Fiction, Paranormal, Science Fiction, Urban Fantasy

509 pages, Paperback

First published January 27, 2015

About the author

Samantha Shannon is the New York Times and #1 Sunday Times bestselling author of the Bone Season series. From 2010 to 2013 she studied English Language and Literature at the University of Oxford. Her fourth novel, The Priory of the Orange Tree (2019), was her first outside of the series. It has sold over a million copies in English alone, and was a finalist in the Lambda Literary Awards 2020. Its standalone prequel, A Day of Fallen Night (2023), won the gold medal in the Fantasy category at the Ippy Awards 2024.

Samantha's work has been translated into twenty-seven languages. Her most recent book is The Dark Mirror (2025), the fifth instalment in the Bone Season series.

Reviews

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arcturus: my girl is mad at me. i hope i die

people that complain about slow burns don’t understand the real yearning that is this entire book series

but did your love interest subconsciously rewrite his entire dreamscape around you? that’s what i thought.

rip to warden losing his entire record collection

Read my full review here

Bookstagram | Blog

[Nikola · Rating 5 out of 5]

2019: Ta część była stanowczo słabsza od „Czasu Żniw”. Dodatkowo mam wrażenie była bardziej młodzieżowa, ale mimo wszystko była to bardzo przyjemna lektura.
4/5
2022: Nie wiem o co mi chodziło z tą młodzieżowością, ale już się nie zgadzam. Działo się równie dużo jak w I tomie, choć moje serce wciąż bije mocniej do Czasu Żniw.
5/5

[Debby · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars

It's important to note that I'm sitting down to write my review of The Mime Order roughly three weeks after finishing the book. The reason for this is quite simply that I was stunned, speechless, and didn't know how I could possibly convey in words just how amazing this book (and this series) is. How do you do epic perfection justice?? HOWW???? HELP ME, BENNYKINS.


OKAY THANK YOU.

In the interest of full disclosure, I have met Samantha Shannon and we are Twitter friends. Seriously, she's a super awesome, amazing, generous person, but I don't feel like that should invalidate my opinion that I think she's a truly brilliant writer. I was already impressed with her skill in The Bone Season , but The Mime Order blew me away. From page one, I was sucked into the story, into this wonderfully vivid world that I just can't get enough of, and it never let me go. I don't know what it is, but something about her writing style just captivates me. I could easily lose track of time reading her books, because there's such beautiful subtleties that I could analyze forever. Plenty of post-its found their way into my ARC, and I already want to go back and reread to find even more beautiful passages that I probably undoubtedly missed. Can't get enough!


Quite possibly I literally showered my ARC with kisses. Ahem.

But a lot of my addiction stems from the beautiful, complex world building. I think one of the biggest weaknesses of the first book (or the only one I could find, really) was that the world was so complex that there were a lot of (necessary) infodumps. Now, with the world established, we can sit back and enjoy it. And woah. It's so richly detailed and immersive. I've seldom really had this feeling that an author has transported me to a completely different place, but The Mime Order did it. The settings are expertly detailed - it felt like I was there. The criminal underworld was so interesting with its power dynamics and social conventions. More politics came into play as well, making it even more intriguing! And history played a role, pretty much making this into an brilliantly plotted alternate history! And, of course, there's the clairvoyance, the Rephaim, and the Netherworld, which I just want to know everything about. Seriously, I can't get enough of this world. It's so impressive.

The plot is a very slow build, and some readers may have issues with that. The world building sometimes seems to take dominance over the plot, but that's because that is Samantha Shannon's craftsmanship at work. And it is excellent. She sets up the pieces perfectly, illustrating how her society works and what the significance of the plot is, and then in the end she blows you away. Every single scene is purposeful. There's the obvious moments, with murder, mystery, and scheming, but even the quieter moments are important in the long run. And even if you think it's slow, it's worth it to get to the end - which definitely isn't.



But before that, I need to profess my undying love for these characters. Paige has absolutely stolen my heart. She completely sucks me into her point of view. I marvel at her bravery, I admire how carefully she plots against Jaxon, and I'm constantly impressed by how she balances what is morally right with what is accepted. She has her flaws, which make her even more endearing, because in the sense of "hero" stories, she has greatness thrust upon her. She's somewhat of a chosen one but a reluctant one. She gradually grows into that role, conquering her weaknesses and accepting responsibility for all the voyants. Seeing everyone else's inaction motivates her to be the catalyst for change and... I absolutely love that. It's not a given either that she's the strongest ever - though arguably her dreamwalker status makes her the strongest voyant, that power has its vulnerabilities as well, and she has to work on it just like everyone else.

And then, of course, there's Warden. Oh Warden. He's wonderfully dark and mysterious, of course, but it's mostly that magical bond between him and Paige that just has me sitting on the edge of my seat any time he's mentioned. His presence makes me get all heart-eyed, and the chemistry between them is electric. I have no words, really. My ship is spectacular. Romance never takes dominance over the story, but it's such a wonderful addition and I just cannot get enough. I wish THAT ONE SCENE didn't fade to black, because vagueness in romance is my enemy, but, well, I could fill in the blanks in my mind - no problem.


OH, NO WORRIES, I DID.

The secondary characters, while clearly in secondary roles, really create a wonderful cast to support the story. I'm always intrigued by Jaxon Hall, although he can be SO GODDAMN FRUSTRATING at times. Paige and Jaxon clearly butt heads a couple times in The Mime Order, which creates an interesting relationship and power dynamic. I can ponder endlessly about his motivations though - he's such a complex character. Nick is also such a great friend for Paige, and I'm so happy that they are able to be so close in spite of Paige's old crush on him. Bonus points to Nick's ship - because not only are they adorable (and sometimes heartbreaking), but it makes me so happy to have an LGBT side-ship in a fantasy/sci-fi novel. Hell. Yes.



So. Finally. The ending was absolute stunning perfection. A lot of this book may be slow to some people, but it's building up to something completely amazing. You want an action-packed battle? The Mime Order delivers. And damn, it was thrilling and vivid, and it brilliantly incorporated physical and mental strength. Paige fights with everything she's got - and she's not completely invulnerable, so you best believe I was on the edge of my seat, scared for her. It was a roller-coaster ride, and I couldn't let go of the book anymore until I'd finally finished it.

But even when you think it's over, Samantha Shannon has one last twist up her sleeve. It's not exactly a cliffhanger, but it's the perfect kind of ending. One last reveal to send you reeling. I actually sat there, jaw dropped, just staring at the last sentences for a while. In the following days, I kept thinking about it - what a game changer it is and what it meant for the series. It gave me chills. I know Samantha had to rewrite that ending about 8 times, but I can say with full certainty that SHE FUCKING NAILED IT. The extra wait was worth it. Perfection. Absolute perfection. Can I have book 3 now please? asdfjkl;asdjfkl;asdjfkl;



Summing Up:

Samantha Shannon has done it again - and I would even say she's outdone herself, because I liked The Mime Order even more than I already loved The Bone Season . She writes pure magic, and her world building and plotting show such careful, expert craftsmanship that I'm an addict and I need more. Paige and Warden are so freaking dear to my heart, with all their flaws, complexities, and that undeniable chemistry. I'm fully invested in this series, so the fact that there are still FIVE more books to come might even sound like not enough to me, but okay. No matter what, I'm sure Samantha Shannon has a bright writing career ahead of her, and I'll be picking up ANYTHING she puts out. They may be extremely chunky books, with slow builds and long wait times in between, but so far I can say it is so worth it.

I hope I even somewhat did this book justice and have convinced you guys to definitely put it on your to-read lists. If you're a fan of complex world building, excellent characters that get you rooting for them, and wonderfully vivid writing, you won't regret it.



GIF it to me straight!

Dear Samantha,



Recommended To:

My mind says fans of Libba Bray, Laini Taylor, and/or any kind of complex, dark fantasy;
my heart says EVERYONEEEEEEE.


*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the contents of the review.

[Caz (littlebookowl) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5 stars
SO MUCH ACTION! I loved how fast-paced this was, the stakes are raised and tension is high.

[jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

you know that ‘second book slump’ that series sometimes get? this book is guilty of that. it wasnt necessarily bad, it was just too slow (it took about 250 pages before anything even happened). however, when it picked up, it really picked up. i still think the premise of these books is interesting, but i feel like it hasnt captivated me as much as i wanted it to. the characters are likeable, the plot is unique, the world building is excellent, and the writing is fine - its just something, some ‘it factor,’ is missing to make me love this. i will most likely read the next book to see if my opinion of this series changes.

3.5 stars

[Charlotte May · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reread 2022

Just as pulse pounding the second time around. Full of back stabbing and secrets, complex world building and wonderful characters. My only dislike is the weird Stockholm syndrome relationship between Paige and Warden.

*****************************

Original review

"Words give wings even to those who have been stamped upon, broken beyond all hope of repair."

Yes! I loved this book just as much as book 1!
I was fully invested in Paige's story, having escaped from the Rephaim's Colony and returned to her home in Seven Dials.
Jaxon is glad to have Paige back, and he will not lose her again. When the current Underlord of the Syndicate is viciously murdered, everyone is under suspicion, including Paige.
Meanwhile the Rephaim are hovering around London. A group of rebels are trying to bring down Nashira and they require Paige's help.

"But I knew now that I lived in a facade, and that puppet masters dwelled in the shadows."

Full of action, twists, violence and drama - I was hooked.
I'm still not 100% sure about the romance, but there we are. I'm never comfortable with relationships where there is about a 100 year age gap. (Literally)
So Paige must work together with the Rephaim, to become Underqueen, become ruler of the Syndicate and in turn use that power against Nashira.
But there are secrets everywhere, and we soon learn that the Rephaim may have been in league with the Scion government, and no one can be trusted. Not the other Mime Queens or Mime Lords, not the Scion government, and sometimes not even those who you've known for years.

Be on your toes! No one is as they seem! 4 stars!

"And because our actions will speak loud and clear to Scion who would never listen to our words...ours will be the Mime Order."

[Maxwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Updated Review
Keeping my rating the same as the first two times I read this one. Definitely a great second installment in this series, though my one qualm is that it's a bit too long at times. I shouldn't really complain about that though because I like spending time with these characters and seeing how she expands the world.

Original Review
First of all, thank you Bloomsbury for sending me an ARC of this book! It is my most highly anticipated book of 2015 (it was supposed to come out at the end of October but got pushed back. I was beyond thrilled to read this early, and all the thoughts in this review are mine.

If you haven't read The Bone Season, the first book in this series, go do that now! This review won't have spoilers, but I just highly, highly recommend this series and want everyone to get started on it! This is only book two of either six or seven books! It's going to be an epic series, as evidenced by the large scale world of books one and two already.

The Mime Order picks up immediately after the end of The Bone Season, literally. The action-packed pacing of the first book continues right into the start of this one, and then it slows down a bit from there. What I loved most about this book was the development of characters and Scion London that I was hoping to see more of in the first book. Now that Paige is back with the Seven Seals in London, we get more of a glimpse as to what she does for her mime-lord, Jaxon Hall, who is one of the most snarky, vile characters that I love to hate.

Paige is such a great narrator for this series. She is tough but not invincible. She is smart, intuitive, but emotional and flawed. Her interactions with people are so genuine, and I really hope at some point we get even more insight into her childhood in Ireland.

The only qualms I had with this book were that I wish we had more Nick & Paige conversations. I understand that this being the second book in a large series means this one had to do even more setting up for the series than the first one did, and it did a wonderful job at that!

After that ending and everything that happened in this book, the third one is going to be insane!

Overall, this series is proving to quickly become my favorite series ever. It is original, the voyant system is so unique, and I love the world that Samantha Shannon has built. It excites me to think of more and more books coming to develop this story more! Seriously, pick up this series ASAP.

[aeryn rose · Rating 3 out of 5]

3⭐️

This book had so much potential, but unfortunately it ended up missing the mark for me. I went into this with high expectations only to be a bit disappointed.

One thing I truly like about this book are the characters. They are so complex and have so much personality that are individual to them. This is definitely a series where the characters carry a lot of weight. Paige, the FMC, is such a standout main character. You really get that journey of self-growth from the first book. She comes into her own and really embraces her strengths throughout this book. The relationships between all of the characters in this book are so strong too. Loyalties are tested and friendships are strained but it just adds more to the plot which I liked.

The main problem I had with this book was the plot development was SOOOO slow. The pacing was farrr from my favorite. It felt like there was very little substance to this book. For being 500+ pages, it was a CHORE to get through this. Honestly? I was bored. I am usually a huge fan of political fantasies, but this was just so much of the wrong thing. We focused so much on the build-up and so little on the actual climax of the story.

However, a big fat however, the ending of this book was IMPECCABLE!! The action and twists and turns at the end were amazing. I probably wouldn't have rated this as highly if it wasn't for the last 70ish pages or so. Everything at the end just made sense. Do I think that the rest of the book could have been divided up better so it wasn't all shoved into the last little bit? Yes. Did I still enjoy the way it wrapped up and the crazy cliffhanger it ended on? Also yes.

Overall, I wouldn't say this is a bad book by any means. I did enjoy parts, mostly towards the end, but the rest of it just felt so dragged out and cluttered. I appreciate that all of the build-up had meaning at the end and there weren't any loose ends, but that just can't make up for the fact that I didn't care for 80% of the book. I will still be continuing this series, as I'm invested enough to want to keep going. I hope I end up enjoying those more than this. 🙂

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Diving straight back into this series head first 🙂‍↔️❤️

[Sean Barrs · Rating 1 out of 5]

If you compare the opening of this to the absolute awful opening of the Bone Season you can see the author has improved, slightly. The awkward and overbearing information dumps are almost gone entirely. This allows us to try and piece the information together a little more; it gives the novel a more show than tell feel. That’s all well and good, but the novel is still very poor.

This is the last book in the series I’ll read

After reading the first book in the series I recognised that it was the author’s first novel, so I was willing to give her a second shot. I was hoping she would improve more than she did. I think the main problem with her style is that when writing a novel of this type the narrative needs to be concise. This, however, was elongated. If this material was in the hands of a more skilled writer it would have been much better, and considerably shorter with a tighter feel to it. Indeed, this novel waffles on and is unnecessarily packed out. I sincerely regret giving her a second chance because this book is awful, and so is the first one.

Moreover, the characters are flat and predictable. The romance route that is continued in this novel is just plain weak and quite appalling. It made me view the protagonist of this novel as quite docile and generally speaking just a doormat. Where is her fight? She lets herself become controlled again, and is blind to the manipulation of her Mimelord. One scene in particular emphasised the deplorability of her character; she request a meeting with head of crime in the city and when she meets them she literally stands there whilst they beat the crap out of her. Fair enough, she is overwhelmed and can’t fight back, but she doesn’t even mention the reason she requested the meeting in the first place. She just stands there, so it was a very frustrating momment.

Ridiculous slang

There is far too much jargon in here that it borders on the absurd. Many words feel out of place in their context and at times just come across as plain stupid. There is even a glossary in the back of the book to assist the reader. Who when reading a book wants to look up the meaning of words such as Rottie, Glossolalia and Boundling? It’s just plain nonsense. Every few pages there is a reference like this, and not all of them are even explained it the glossary. I think a little bit of slang is ok, if used moderately. But, when too much is used it leaves you with a feeling of alienation with the novel. I mean, you’d never read words like this again unless you picked up the next instalment in this terrible series.

Suffice to say, I hated this book. I can’t actually get over the fact that there is going to be seven books in this series. Who wants to read seven books of flat characters, ridiculous slang and plain poor plotting? Not me, that’s for sure.

Thus, I gave this a deserved 1 star rating.

[Maryam Rz. · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 STARS!

Take up the challenge.
Catch the fugitive.
Win $15,000.
#SpreadTheWord

WANTED FOR MURDER:



For the horrid crime of stabbing yours truly in the back, Samantha Shannon, a killer parading as an author, is wanted by the Assembly for Revenge of the Unjustly Deceased by Books, requested by the poltergeist that is what remains of yours truly, now known as Mary the No-Longer Merry.

Assist us in this manhunt!

[Melanie (meltotheany) · Rating 3 out of 5]

1.) The Bone Season ★★★

Would me writing "I hate Jaxon Hall" over and over again be an acceptable review? Because that's honestly how I'm feeling right about now.

“A boy who begged for books and pens as often as he did for coin. A boy with arms torn to ribbons by fingernails, plotting his escape from poverty.”

The Mime Order picks up right where the The Bone Season leaves off, and I mean exactly how it leaves off: our group is on the train, and their escape from Sheol I didn't go quite as planned. I was filled with so much excitement; I couldn't wait to see what would happen when Paige and the gang returned to London! Yet, to my remorseful surprise, after the action packed opener the book felt pretty stagnant for quite some time.

My biggest issue with this book: Warden didn't show up until after 40% of the way through this book. Like, if a ton of exciting things were going on during that 40% to make up for Paige and Warden's amazing dynamic being missing than I would have been fine, but the story only started getting good, in my opinion, once Warden showed up. The first 40% was dull and uneventful. Yeah, later those dull and uneventful moments became something great, but it was still a little bit of work to force myself to read on.

The best part of this book: The exploration of how this shady government group is deceiving everyone. They are spewing lies and hate, and making everyone afraid of each other, while trying to cover-up that they are working alongside an even worse evil.

“Hope is the lifeblood of revolution. Without it, we are nothing but ash, waiting for the wind to take us.”

The problems I had with information-dumping in The Bone Season subsided completely. These characters and this alternative London is starting to feel like home, and I really enjoyed that.

As far as new characters and locations, I loved reading about Jacob's Island and the Jacobites. It felt just like Ketterdam from Six of Crows to me. I was so enthralled so fast, and I didn't nearly get enough of it. Please, give me more Wynn Jacob and more of this island in book three!

I love the ragtag group that is known as The Seven Seals. Well, obviously I have issues with one of those Seals (and two others at the end), but I love their dynamic as a whole. The fourth scrimmage in the history of the London Syndicate gave me all the feels. Like, I reread that scene three times because I freaking loved it that much. The angst, the betrayal, the quick thinking, the cleaver mechanics, the waiting to see who chose what side, I loved it all!

The ending, for as much as it brought me rage, was amazing. It made me so thankful I received an ARC of the The Song Rising, and it made me want to ignore all of my scheduled February reading and start it immediately. So, that is pretty impressive and quite the hype I'm putting on it. Hopefully, it doesn't let me down, because I have super high hopes for it and the Black Moth!

“Words are everything. Words give wings even to those who have been stamped upon, broken beyond all hope of repair.”

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[Książkowe Bajdurzenie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Do widzenia Pani Samantho.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIEj2...

[Andie · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Ahh that plot twist!

This is slowly becoming a favorite series of mine. Took awhile longer than the first book to become fully immersed but once I hit that stride there was no stopping! The world building is insane and leaves much to still be explored. Paige is an awesome heroine and I can't wait to see her kick some more ass. I wouldn't mind seeing more of Warden, though, and a bit more romance ;) All in all a really solid sequel.

[Samantha (ladybug.books) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I COULD HAVE TOLD YOU THAT WAS GOING TO COME BACK TO HAUNT YOU PAIGE!! Omfg the ending made me want to throw the book.

Very good. Very stressful. Slow at times because the syndicate stuff didn’t really interest me for most of the book. But what an ending wow

[Ashleigh (a frolic through fiction) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally posted on A Frolic Through Fiction

*This was a reread for me*

WARNING: If you read this book, make sure you have the next book to hand because WHAT A CLIFFHANGER GOOD GRIEF . I had to wait two years for the next!

So, this book picks up right where The Bone Season left off. Which is mighty handy, because I personally hate it when you get to the next book and oh – there’s a summary of what happened in the last 6 months we just skipped because surely they’re not important?

And let me tell you, there’s so much going on in this book. Not in the ridiculously overwhelming way. More in the way that there’s always a problem or two to be dealt with. There’s dangers at every turn. You don’t know who to trust. You don’t know whether answers are true or a set up. And you have no idea where the story will go.

It means this book feels like a much shorter read than it is. For a book that’s over 500 pages long, it didn’t take me long to read at all, especially once you get hooked in all the goings-on. And I can’t get over how INTENSE it is. Especially towards the end. When I finished this book, I literally slammed it shut and took a deep breath, because I swear I hardly dared breathe for the last 100 pages or so.

As for the characters, I can’t get over how much I love them all. Not so much as people, but they do make GREAT characters to read about. But our protagonist, Paige…oh I adore her. She’s so strong, but you see her doubt herself, you see her fear, you see her trying to make the best out of any situation. She adapts so well, and I can’t help but admire her courage.

I also want to quickly mention that this book has some diversity, but in the way that it’s just a normal thing. I’ll be going into it more in my review for the next book – The Song Rising – as I think it’s a more prominent thing there from rumours I’ve heard. But in regards to characters sexuality, there’s mentions of characters being bisexual and gay, but without it being a big deal. It’s just the norm here, it’s not a “coming out” story.

But really, I just can’t deal with the end. I know I keep going on about it. But there was a moment where my heart actually stopped. I couldn’t believe it. And it’s SUCH a good ending to a book…I do just implore you all to read it. Though of course, read the first book first.

I know this review is in a shambles. I’m really bad at reviewing sequels, ok?

NOTE: Possible trigger warning for self-harm.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

How do you convey your feelings for a beautifully complex tale that brings ace character growth, world building, philosophical ideas and tinge of romance? Basically, you don’t. Not really.

When you look at the brick that is The Mime Order, you’re bound to be intimidated. Intimidation festers into stress which then turns into my favourite pastime—feigning ignorance. AKA pretending that it doesn’t exists until the very last second, further perpetuating stress levels and ensuring bounteous hair loss (how I still have hair is beyond me. My babies fall out like I’m a shitzu and it’s shedding season come early.) Against all odds (or perhaps not, I’ve been known to look past info dumping), I adored The Bone Season to bits. The world was delectable, albeit fed in plentiful doses. The characters delightful tragic, dark and mysterious. The circumstances dismal and layered in political lies. But a girl doesn’t forget info dump, not such an unprecedented amount. And so when I saw the size of The Mime Order, I let it stew. I sat on that arc for months and months while others raved and took to the world wide web. But once I managed to hype myself up and sit down with the copy, making the tragically amateur mistake of reading at midnight, before work, I was hooked. Eye stinging aside, I devoured this book with no regrets.

Fear not, for that world building has just paved way for a riveting fantasy world. I get it. Fantasies are always hard to crack into once you’ve waited a year or two, and the high of the previous book has died off. Oh, I get it. Couple that with a heinous attempt at memory retention and you have me. I am as bad as it gets. I’m stubborn and am constantly in a battle against time. I don’t do refreshers. I don’t reread. And when you think of The Bone Season, you’d think, Jess, you really dug a hole for yourself this time. Guess who wasn’t confused, at all. Far from it. By some miracle unheard of, everything just clicked. So you know what? For once in my goddamn life, I’m going to thank the previous instalment for it’s bounty of information because it seemed to have ingrained a thing or two in me. Like muscle memory (you get me, don’t you?) The world of Scion, the Netherworld, it is all so crisp, so detailed in my mind. Returning was blissful. Shannon has crafted a world so rich in detail. It is immersive. She’s taken her world and made it almost tangible. Scion, itself, is not a beautiful place. It is dark, desolate, desperate. It is so tightly choked by a leash, so indoctrinated by rules and lies fed by its governing body, its people oppressed and living content—complacent—purely out of fear. And thus, it is a feeding ground for corruption, for the power and allure of the dollar bill, for food that is greater than a grain of rice. Power is money. And for the Unnatural Assembly, that is all it takes to keep the resident clairvoyants, the oppressed from society, in line.

The Mime Order brings a forth a plot that unfolds at its organic speed. You may think me deluded for a second. Organic? Has she lost her mind? Mind me not, I purely mean, The Mime Order and its events unfold at a speed that feels natural and authentic to its aim, its story, its tale—the tale of Paige, the lies, of the corruption, of the people living in fear of those orchestrating history. That being said, in normal terms, the plot builds slowly. It’s a speed that I mind not, but I can see it bothering a fair few of you. While I think it a necessity, it may be a factor hindering enjoyment for some. But keep in mind, every scene, every piece of dialogue, every description has a purpose. While it builds slowly, the plot remains delicious and multilayered.

I admire the main character with my every fibre. What a tenacious, strong willed and intelligent lady. She knows a little thing or two about patience (something that I need to take notes on), and it’s captivating to see her bravery as she undergoes her journey for justice. Paige is not without her flaws, but it only makes her an even more multifaceted character. In the world dancing comfortably in the grey area, she understands her morals, her beliefs, far beyond any one else. She has tunnel vision and it’s aimed at justice. In The Bone Season, Paige had her bildungsroman. She woke up from smelling the flowers and realised that the world was caked in lies and money, greed and power. And she realised, maybe it’s not as cracked out as it used to be. While Jaxon and the rest of I-4 live happily under the allusion of yesterday, Paige lobbies, desperately, for justice. And she understands the risks she must take in order to achieve a voice, to ignite a flame.

I also loved all the secondary characters. It’s a stark difference to a cast that you’d be used to. It’s because everybody has a price. We’re talking about a cast who a driven away from society, forced to be lured into the magnetism of the dollar bill.

“You helped me.”
“Do not labour under the illusion that I am a bastion of moral goodness, Paige. That would be a dangerous venture.”

All her characters are dark. They have pasts. They are flawed. But that doesn’t mean that they’re unlikable, that we, the audience, would be repelled. It’s a different cast up for offer and it’s a brilliant one.

Let’s talk romance for a second here. I know y’all. Let me ease that curiosity. While some were repelled by the romance in The Bone Season, I rather enjoyed it. Because it employed the whole antagonism to lust and lastly, to care (that’s right kiddos, I won’t say love. I didn’t think it was love by any means. Not the whole crazy let me throw myself in front of a train even though, hey ho, I lived millenniums without knowing you.) Warden is a mysterious figure. With semi questionable intentions, which were, I suppose, good at heart (hey now, I’m not justifying anything that he’s done). He’s not a good man. Far from it. He watched as his race kidnapped and enslaved humans. He was passive throughout, bidding his time. He didn’t agree with the methods, with the radicalism, but he wasn’t an active saviour. Warden sees the bigger picture. He wants liberation for all. He wants that unattainable greater good, the idealistic vision. And he’s not afraid to sacrifice a few lambs here and there on his way there. They’re a means to an end. But Paige kind of completes him. I won’t say change because she doesn’t, not really. But having Paige there has meant that Warden’s widened his horizons, learnt to see the glass both ways—half empty and full. And that’s all you can ask for, really. So the romance in The Mime Order? It had me oozing all over the place because it was vague, slow burning, an exploration of feelings that were so pumped with lust but also inclusive of care. There’s an attraction, an undeniable pull (which also puts them into a difficult position seeing as they’re from two races pitted against one another, and with a history of a slaver/slavee relationship) but also this need to understand the fact that this connection runs deeper. And it’s beautiful, seeing the two slowly explore that—seeing them cross barriers, learn a little about themselves. The thing is, the romance is never overwhelming. Ladies and gents, we do not, for a second, sacrifice plot for romance.

As always, Shannon ends with a stunningly dramatic, and highly shocking cliffhanger. One that had me snap the book close, chuck it to the side and blank out for a moment. That’s what I want from a book. That’s how you take your plot places. Shannon is building a heck of an empire out of her story. It’s a slow crescendo, the journey to liberation always is, and Shannon is taking us on one heck of a ride.

The Mime Order is stunning as a sequel. All the pieces slot into place. Sure, you may be in the dark, grasping for a familiar figure in the first few chapters or so. But once it clicks, oh boy, does it click. There’s no turning back with this series. It’s dark, deep and dangerously delectable. The Mime Order is mesmerising. Let loose, look for a bracket of time, and sit back and devour this series.

Many thanks to the publisher for providing an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. All quotes used were obtained from uncorrected proof that is subject to change in the final publication.

_____________________________

Bone Season had me apprehensive. Mime Order has me sold. That's right, willing, unwilling, I don't care. I just want more of this series. Review To Come

Please excuse me while I go and nurse my betrayal, alright. That, up there, is legitimately me, for the past day or so. This world remains dense and rich in detail, multifaceted and brilliantly concocted with a series of characters who are dark and flawed and swayed by the powers of consumerism. Basically, everything I want in a book.

[Althea ☾ · Rating 5 out of 5]

[11/2/25 update] upon further consideration (aka i finished dawn chorus) i actually think this book is 5 stars (changed from 4). i have no other comments at this moment. pls read thanks.

*speaking into mic*

this story shines most when it highlights the use of media/literature as propaganda, the mystery behind various characters’ motives, and the constant battle against systemic oppression riddled in personal trauma — samantha shannon loves her symbolisms and i eat it up

ALSO… THE TENSION! MY STRESS!! THE ANGST!!!! *cartwheel* *summersault* *backflip* my silent screams istg.

“Writing didn't carry the same risks as speaking. You couldn't be shouted down or stared at. The page was both a proxy and a shield.”

part of the fun of book 1 is figuring out the mystery behind what’s going on. i think it’s best to know little about the characters and setting going in but if you’re curious about the setting:

the series starts mostly set in a dystopian england and involves an underground crime syndicate of people with different clairvoyant powers (spirit-based magic, very interesting) — the romance behind the scenes is also full of tenderness and care. there are times when the build up of the plot takes time but i find it rewarding because the plot and character relationships are packed with tension.

this is CAMP. this is DRAMA. and the humorous beats were hitting, i was was actually laughing because Paige:
❌ mime lord
❌ mime queen
✅ meme lord

it’s fascinating to see how samantha shannon is able to portray concrete reasons for how systemic problems in this series arise when we usually only see the end-product. we see why problems and dilemmas have progressed to what they are because of a very specific reason, portraying the butterfly effect of individual choices and result of propaganda.

there’s a lot of tension all throughout the story and my investment piqued because of how successfully Samantha Shannon is able to make me PHYSICALLY feel everything Paige is going through. When she’s pissed, i’m pissed. When she’s tense, i am 10x more tense. i feel all of Paige’s longing and memories as if they were my own. she’s also hilarious… this girl had me laughing at my book.

Samantha Shannon loves her symbolisms and parallels to greek myths and i ate it all up.

i do think there are moments that happen in regards to the magic system when there’s suddenly this very-convenient-to-the-scene element that we had not seen until that moment because it’s going to save them. sometimes i just accept it even though i didn’t see the build up or implication of it beforehand — it wasn’t too noticeable though. Samantha Shannon’s writing has been on an uphill slope so far so i didn’t mind it that much. all i was thinking about was how i didn’t want to be disturbed while reading.

i do think that the action scenes just keep getting more exhilarating and the lore more investing. the use of media as propaganda backed by drama and flair resulting in a big scale illusion… *chef’s kiss* — all of that added to the weight of the character dynamics and relationships. the characters have morally complicated histories but they try their best after being faced with the realities of oppression despite benefitting from it. we watch them (especially paige) go down the emotional turmoils and conflicting loyalties. it makes them lovable and investing to read about.

special shoutout to the golden cookie that is Nick Nyagard. i want to protect him and put him in my pocket.

finally: the ROMANCE going on behind the scenes has me hanging on a fish hook!! the music, the tenderness… my man is a full blown yearner and is the cherry on top of all the tension.

ARCTURUS THE MAN YOU ARE!!!!

i was initially in a whiplash from the atmosphere change of book 1 and book 2 because of the setting (iykyk) but i settled more into Mime Order when the idea of the rephs relative to the the world in book 2 sunk in. it changed the way i saw the character dynamics and the way i viewed the systemic issues and dilemmas. at first, i was like most of the voyants in the sense that i couldn’t grasp how big their presence was, until i did.

i do wish we could have seen more of Paige & Nick’s dynamic in terms of being shown that Paige is just as willing to fight for Nick as he is for her… like i get it, i’m invested in them too just as much as with Arcturus but it would have been stronger to see her being more selfless towards Nick considering everything the man does for her and how deep their history goes.

at the end of the day, i really don’t care about my irks bc i just see this getter better and better and i am ADDICTED.

i have already started The Song Rising and finished Pale Dreamer as i write this review. i can’t stop reading.

4.25

[Nanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't even begin to express how badly I need the next book.

I mean really!

what am I to do?!

*cries*

join me! read this book and the first one! it's amazing and you will not regret it one bit!

[Zoranne · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25!! wow! what a sequel!!!

[Piéra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well shit. This series still isn't my usual cup of tea but I was pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed these books. The Mime Order had half the amount of info-dumping as The Bone Season which I really appreciated. The cast of characters grew on me, as did Paige and the authors writing style. I still struggled with the language and the setting, but I was able to keep some sort of hold on the storyline which kept me invested! A very well written, well thought out series and I'm excited for the next book!

[Dannii Elle · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Read: March 2017, Rating: 5/5 stars
Second Read: January 2021, Rating: 5/5 stars
Third Read: August 2025, Rating: 5/5 stars

This is the second instalment in the incredible Bone Season series and was every bit as brilliant and complex as the first one.

Paige Mahoney escaped her imprisonment in the Sheol prison camp, under cruel Rephaim leadership, only to return to her former cage, under the guise of protection, of her mime-lord Jaxon Hill. When the underlord of the underground clairvoyant community is brutally murdered, a new mime-lord must reign in his stead. All eyes turn to Jaxon Hill and his renowned mollisher, Paige. But Paige has other ideas. And these don't involve being ruled by anyone, anymore.

As with the first book, the complexity of this tale was just astounding. Shannon brilliantly imagined our futuristic world, with an intricate hierarchy of humanity that satired our history of the governing patriarchal wish for unity and its intense dislike for anything that threatened the human standardisation. The clairvoyant individuals of the tale are treated as lesser humans, which ensures they are feared, shunned and loathed by the rest of society. Their death is treated as media gold and used for light entertainment.

The underground community that has sprung in the wake of this repression thrives on their own sense of order, further oppressing some of their own kin's abilities. Paige highlights this injustice and brings a call for change that equalises all individuals.

Her morality is what made Paige such a fascinating protagonist. She may be young, impetuous, and volatile but she is also fierce, noble, and brave.

And this nebulous individual was also mirrored in the setting. I adored the wonderfully evocative descriptions conjured of this futuristic London. Shadows of our contemporary city remained, so as to give a basis for this imaginary depiction, but it has also been evocatively re-imagined. Remnants of the old world battled in the shadows, against the startling and uniform architecture of the future.

This unique and compelling tale has all the facets of a first-rate series and Shannon's sublime writing does the story justice. A faultless parable with faultless prose!

[Noa (semi ia) ˚୨୧ · Rating 4 out of 5]

yessss Samantha yesssss. Now that's how you write a sequel 👏 👏 this was so much better than the bone season (that shit was lowk boring 😴) I also finished it way quicker, which is always a good sign.
4 🌟 I can't wait to read the third one






number twoooo (that's sounds wrong) already started reading it a bit and it's already better thank the first one so high hopes fir this one 🤞✨️🍾🤍

[Whitney Atkinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

this is the first audiobook i've listened to in a while and i really enjoyed it! will i forget every detail of this book in 3 business days? most likely. but the narrator is great and even in the places where this book probably would have lagged if i'd read it physically, it was easy to follow.

there's definitely more action in this than book one, which i appreciated. the moments of tension are done really well and keep you rooting for the main character. the one hurdle i still can't quite get over is that this book is good but not absolutely amazing, partly because i wish we had more description. the author goes so deep into the world building but not so much in actually putting you there, and even after two books my grasp of certain things is shaky.

usually romance is the life vest that keeps me going through a hefty series, and these books do have a sprinkling of that, but i'm really torn on how i feel about it. the forbidden romance aspects of it are interesting but i can't get over the inevitable mortal x immortal foreshadowing to be able to fully commit. one of my character flaws is i can forgive a book with stockholm syndrome but this one feels kinda like a stretch and sometimes they don't have much chemistry other than the have the same goals. but we'll see how the rest of it unfolds.

there's 2 more installments and i'm definitely going to continue after a brief pause to read holiday themed books.

[Caitlin · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars!

The ending was really cool and I'm so excited for the next book!

However, this book definitely suffered from second book syndrome for me. I was honestly starting to skim some sections due to boredom and then I ended up completely confused as to what was going on. I'm definitely way more confused than I was in book 1 and I found this book honestly not as good as I expected.

I feel like this book was a lot of running around in the same circles and could have been shorter but hey that's just me. I also wish the chapters weren't so long because it really put me off reading it.

Overall a good book but not what I had expected and it definitely dragged in parts

[Lau ♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Set in a futuristic London and full of action, The Mime Order is the second book in the Bone Season series. While the first book felt too fast, full of original twists but also loads of information about the magic system -which I found very cool when I finally managed to remember the terms-, The Mime Order is the complete opposite. The magic system was already established, so it was an easy read, but I finished it feeling little had happened.

I had two main problems:

1. It was action packed but felt slow, especially the first part. The characters spent a lot of time running in circles and solving subplot problems. Even Paige (h) kept thinking they should be attacking, instead of losing time with mime lord acts.

2. For being immortal creatures, the Rephain are not very interesting. And I’m still searching for the spark between Paige and her love interest, despite them being in a Romeo-and-Juliet situation.

Overall, it was a quick, action-packed read with a great magic system, but I expected more: plot twist, character development, magic tricks, more important actions from the beginning.

[Robin (Bridge Four) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Finally finished.... 3.5 Scorched Dreamscape Stars

I liked this much better than The Bone Season. There seemed to be a clearer plot line and things move along at a little better pace. But it is still slightly slow in places to the point I almost started skimming and there is a ton of world building still happening that might have got a little bogged down with details.

Paige is growing on me but the majority of the reason I don't totally love this book is her. She is young and growing but for some of this I think she is so naive and makes choices that I clearly see will get others killed later. However by the end of this book I was totally starting to really like her character a lot more and maybe she is actually learning from the mistakes she made.

Warden is still my favorite character and I find him to possibly be the most interesting character in the book. I really want to know more about him and some of the dynamics of the Rathem. Jaxon is another mystery character that while I hate him, he does fill the page well and I'm not sure just how cruel he could be.

The Ending was fantastic though and I loved the reveal at the end. I had my suspicions but it still had a nice punch to it when it all played out.

Full Review to come. These are just my initial thoughts and I know it might seen like a full review but shhhh it isn't. I have many more words.

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***

The Mime Order by Samantha Shannon
Book Two of The Bone Season series
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Publication Date: January 27, 2015
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley

Summary (from Goodreads):

Paige Mahoney has escaped the brutal penal colony of Sheol I, but her problems have only just begun: many of the fugitives are still missing and she is the most wanted person in London.

As Scion turns its all-seeing eye on Paige, the mime-lords and mime-queens of the city’s gangs are invited to a rare meeting of the Unnatural Assembly. Jaxon Hall and his Seven Seals prepare to take center stage, but there are bitter fault lines running through the clairvoyant community and dark secrets around every corner.

Then the Rephaim begin crawling out from the shadows. But where is Warden? Paige must keep moving, from Seven Dials to Grub Street to the secret catacombs of Camden, until the fate of the underworld can be decided. Will Paige know who to trust? The hunt for the dreamwalker is on.

What I Liked:

I really enjoyed The Bone Season. I put off reading the book for so long, because of all the hype surrounding the novel. It's immensely popular in the UK, as well as in the United States. But when I finally read it, I loved it! I was intrigued by the intricate and complicated world - I hadn't read too many novels like The Bone Season. Nevertheless, I think this sequel did the first book justice, and I'll definitely be impatiently waiting for book three.

In this novel, Paige has escaped the penal colony, and returned to SciLo, to the syndicate, to her mime-Lord, Jaxon. He doesn't want her to spread word of the Rephaim's existence, but she wants the syndicate to know. Certain events are set in motion - the syndicate Underlord is murdered, and a new Underlord (or Underqueen) must take his place. Meanwhile, EVERYONE is looking for Paige - or The Pale Dreamer - or the human that consorted with a Rephaim. The streets are more and more dangerous for her, but she will stop at nothing to bring justice to the clairvoyants who were taken, and to warn the syndicate of the existence of the Rephain - with or without the Rephaim (in particular, Arcturus, who has yet to be found).

This book definitely gets off to a slow start. The sampler that was available on NetGalley featured about 20% of the book, which is a solid chunk! I had read the sampler a few months ago, and wasn't all that satisfied or impressed. However, after certain events occurred, I was hooked. Once the Rephain came back into the picture (and I'm talking about Rephaim that aren't Arcturus, actually), things started to pick up.

There was all kinds of high stakes and sneaking around and straight-up MESS, in this book. Paige was constantly going behind Jaxon's back, meeting with other Sheol I fugitives, or meeting with the Rephaim, or doing things that she didn't want Jaxon - or anyone - to know about. My heart was literally pounding every time she went sneaking about - Jaxon really didn't seem like a person to piss off. I mean, the state of affairs with the Rephaim is pretty important, but Paige needed Jaxon's protection. Which she quickly finds out.

As with book one, the world-building in this book is intricate and impeccable. This book takes place completely in London, but you really get a feel for the futuristic city. Mention of the Americas is in this book, which I thought was nice - it put the setting of this book into perspective.

There is very little of the Rephaim in this book, yet their presence is always known, like an undercurrent. Nashira isn't present in this book, and several key Rephaim do not appear until about midway through the book. As for Arcturus... don't worry, he's in this book. Check out my blog on Thursday (December 18th), if you want to see a fun scene between Arcturus and Paige.

Okay, so, the romance. Honestly, I'm a huge fan of the romance. Arcturus (a.k.a. Warden, so no one gets confused) doesn't appear until more than halfway through the book. And even then, Paige and Warden kind of put a wall between themselves, because Warden is marked by the Rephaim, now that Nashira told everyone that he was "consorting with a human". BUT. The chemistry/physical/emotional connection between Paige and Arcturus is so obvious and burning and THERE, so, don't you worry about the romance. I love the progression of the romance, even if it feels like it isn't there.

I like Paige. She's very tough, and not just physically. She makes some incredibly difficult decisions, like going behind Jaxon's back, about many things. Honestly, I'd probably be very docile and most likely hiding, if I had a choice. But she totally stands up to the Sargas family, to SciLo, to the syndicate.

I'm quite pleased with this sequel. It was slow, but much happened in this book. A LOT happened, really, in small chunks, spread over a long book. The ending is kind of a slap in the face. No, a punch in the face. Holy guacamole. Book three book three book three!

What I Did Not Like:

Like I've been saying, this book starts off very slowly. I'd say the first thirty ish percent is pretty sluggish, though I can understand why. Shannon is setting the scene and tone for the rest of the book. But the book is really long to begin with, so it felt like things dragged. I feel like this will definitely be a deterrent to some, or possibly a reason for some to DNF, so I thought I'd mention it.

Would I Recommend It:

Well, if you read book one, there is no reason for you not to read book two! I liked this sequel a lot, and I would highly recommend reading the sequel. And, if you haven't read The Bone Season, and you're interested, then I think you should get it a try! Just be warned, the books are loooonngggg (they're adult novels, not YA). So, tuck in!

Rating:

4 stars. This book didn't end in a such a way that I felt anxious (like The Bone Season did), but some crazy truths were revealed at the end of the book, so I definitely want to keep reading. Book three, please!

[Mads Browse · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 again, really hoping one of these cracks into 5 star territory!! The second half of this was, but the first bit not quite

[Izabela Górska · Rating 4 out of 5]

2022: 5 ⭐️
Czy ja kiedyś dam książkom Shannon mniej niż 5 gwiazdek? Nie sądzę!

2025: 4⭐️
Wciąż moja ulubiona część spośród trzech, które do tej pory czytałam.

[Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Original Read: February 17th - February 24th, 2016
Re-read: March 19th - April 7th, 2017

I enjoyed this book just as much the second time around, and I'm glad that I did the re-read before starting The Song Rising.

I have kept my original review below.

****************************************************

Original Review

4 stars!

***To anyone who happens to be reading this, this review will have some spoils from the first book in this series, The Bone Season***

"Hope is the lifeblood of the revolution. Without it, we are nothing but ash, waiting for the wind to take us."

Paige Mahoney has escaped the prison camp run by the Rephaim, called Sheol 1, but has no shortage of problems. Most of the survivors are missing and Paige's face is plastered all over Scion London. She has become the most wanted person around and everyone is on the lookout for her. Left with little options for protection, she returns to the Seven Seals, to being Jaxon Hall's mollisher. But she is determined that all of Scion London should know about the Rephaim and how they are still a danger to all the voyants.
The plan she comes up with is to have the story of the Rephaim become the story in a penny dreadful (an illegal horror story, printed and sold by the Penny Post, Grub Street's mobile bookshop). Paige's hope is that, even if the voyants regard the story as purely fiction, at least they will be aware of what the Rephaim are and why they're here, should they ever become exposed.

"Words give wings even to those who have been stamped upon, broken beyond all hope of repair."

While this is going on, the Underlord of the London syndicate, Hector and his crew (all but his mollisher, Cutmouth) are found by Paige, brutally murdered and mutilated. Paige becomes the prime suspect in their deaths, despite the fact that Cutmouth has disappeared without a trace. When an Underlord (or Underqueen) dies, it is their mollisher that takes over their place as head of the syndicate. But with Cutmouth not coming forward to take her title, there is now to be a scrimmage to determine a new Underlord or Underqueen.

"November 1, 2059 : The clocks of London chimed eleven. Inside the interchange building to II-2, every light had been extinguished. But beneath the brick warehouse, in the secret labyrinth of the Camden Catacombs, the fourth scrimmage in the history of the London Syndicate was about to begin."

Jaxon is planning to compete in the scrimmage in the hopes of becoming the next Underlord. But when Paige attempts to discuss the Rephaim with him and see what they could plan if he did succeed in winning, he basically turns a blind eye to the problem and expects her to do the same. With Jaxon as Underlord, she would still not have a voice, wouldn't have any more authority than she does currently to try to fight the Rephaim. So she decides to go against Jaxon in the scrimmage, unbeknownst to him.

"I didn't know where I'd be the day after tomorrow. I could be on the streets, a pariah and a traitor. I could be Underqueen, ruling the syndicate. I could be in the aether."

Competing is a great risk. She would need financial backing to help build herself an army, should she win. Enter the Rephaim who are against Nashira and the others, who are willing to help voyants, albeit grudgingly, survive. They call themselves the Ranthen. Earlier in the book, Paige discovered with the help of the golden cord connecting herself and Warden, that he was captured and imprisoned within the syndicate. She managed to get him out, but ended up with an even larger target on her back. But with him free and able to contact the other Ranthen, he helps to get Paige an audience with Terebell, their leader, to ask for financial backing and support should she win the scrimmage. She begins to train with with Warden to help prepare her clairvoyant powers. But their relationship dynamic is much different from how it was in The Bone Season.

"In the colony, our relationship had been about fear. My fear of his control. His fear of my betrayal. Now, I realized, it was about trying to understand each other. But fear and understanding were kindred things. Both involved the loss of the familiar and the terrible danger of knowledge. I didn't know if I understood him yet, but I wanted to. That in itself was a shock."

It was really nice to see a "couple" that had no instalove, not even instalust really. Their relationship has come a long way. At the end of The Bone Season, they were close to a friendship, had mutual respect for one another and had one confusing moment of passion, but they're still trying to work out what they feel for one another. It's nice to see the feelings unravel.

"Warden cared if I laughed. He cared if I lived or died. He had seen me as I was, not as the world saw me. And that meant something."

This book was action packed, but also had more of the politics of the syndicate. It picked up right where The Bone Season left off, right in the middle of the escape from Sheol 1, which was basically the cliffhanger for the first book. Luckily It was less confusing for me than The Bone Season was. It ended with a big cliffhanger, of course, that I definitely didn't see coming...so I can't wait to see how the next book in the series plays out. This is, so far, a great series and I'm excited to see what comes next.