Do I really have to wait another year for book 3?! *weeps at the injustice* (See what I did there?)
Many sequels pale in comparison to their predecessor, but WEEPING JUSTICE not only hits the mark; it might even be better! The stakes are heavier, the characters feel realer, and I was straight-up pacing with anxiety in those last few chapters. I also cried. So, yeah.
Kicking off where STEALING LIBERTY ended, readers are immediately thrown into a panic as Riley+Reed go their own way after Lexie, leaving Xoey, Sam, and Adam behind. Meanwhile, what of Paisley and Oliver?! That question will haunt you for the rest of the book. It'll haunt your dreams too.
I loved, LOVED watching Xoey struggle with anger and doubt as she does that thing all characters inevitably do: something stupidly dangerous in the pursuit of love. Characters always think their plan will unfold nicely. Does it ever? No. But of course Xoey had to learn that on her own.
My favorite plot, though, was that of Riley+Reed, possibly one of my favorite couples in the universe. They've surpassed the love/hate banter of book 1 and now have a solid friendship, though not without its complications. Still, they're loyal to each other, and Reed is oh-so-wonderfully protective over Riley (who, to be fair, must have a death wish).
Froelich tackles some heavy themes with this book: alcoholism, death, and sex trafficking, so be wary of that when considering WJ for younger readers. I can't give Froelich kudos enough for her realistic portrayal of Reed when the spoilery thing happens. Some of it crushed my soul, especially Gabriel - a character I'd like to see more of!
Overall, a solid 5 stars for an amazing book that, though heavy, allows hope to bleed through. I'm anxious for the finale!