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The Grave Kingdom #2
The Buried World
The young warrior Bingmei pits her courage, combat skills, and very life against a brutal tyrant’s dark magic in the follow-up to Wall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler’s The Killing Fog.
The orphaned Bingmei didn’t choose to be a hero. She has no wish to cross the Death Wall to save the world. But she has awakened Echion, emperor of the Grave Kingdom and Dragon of Night, and it is her destiny to defy him. From his imperial city of ancient sorcery and immortal darkness, Echion conspires to fulfill his own destiny: vanquish Bingmei, revive his queen, and rule together for another eon unchallenged.
Traversing a labyrinth of caves and mountains, Bingmei and her band of allies prepare their defense against a fateful war they cannot win. But when they are overcome by Echion’s terrible power, Bingmei is left vulnerable to a ruthless assassin…one with orders to capture, not kill.
Before he destroys her, Echion craves something more than Bingmei’s soul. Only she has the power to resurrect Echion’s ancient queen, Xisi, whose evil is matched only by his own. Once reunited, their dark shadow will fall like a shroud over the realms. To be a savior, Bingmei must first survive what she has unleashed, and to survive she must begin to understand the seeds of power she’s never learned to control.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 23, 2020
1871 people are currently reading
2125 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Wheeler
129 books5,243 followersWall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler took an early retirement from his career at Intel in 2014 to write full-time. He is a husband, father of five, and a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jeff lives in the Rocky Mountains.
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews
February 23, 2024
First half of this second book in a trilogy was pretty good, but then it went on the Fourth Wing mode of our narrator Bingmei facing impossible odds and close to death and in danger every moment. Just exhausting and everyone dying around her against evil dragons. Just lost it for me, not sure if I will finish the series. Started well, but lost its way. 3 stars.
December 9, 2023
Souls
A good continuation of the story. I found this book slightly less action-packed than the first book. I do think this is to do with the magic part of the book. The martial arts for me are the strongest part of the book.
The book is good a bit slow in parts. Much of that is to do with the fact that in the last book, the heroes had suffered devastating losses already and are seemingly over matched when it come to what they are facing. So they are already on the back foot or actually in the run.
I do like the twist that what seems to make the bad characters almost invincible is what might be the key to defeating them. There are a number of the hints at things in this book of a more spiritual nature, destinies to come, and past lives.
I am definitely intrigued for the next book. On a personal preference, I am hoping for a lot more marital arts action, just unlocking a new spiritual power to win the day. I am also interested I who Bingmei chooses, I know who my preference for her is, but is that destiny already written?
A good continuation of the story. I found this book slightly less action-packed than the first book. I do think this is to do with the magic part of the book. The martial arts for me are the strongest part of the book.
The book is good a bit slow in parts. Much of that is to do with the fact that in the last book, the heroes had suffered devastating losses already and are seemingly over matched when it come to what they are facing. So they are already on the back foot or actually in the run.
I do like the twist that what seems to make the bad characters almost invincible is what might be the key to defeating them. There are a number of the hints at things in this book of a more spiritual nature, destinies to come, and past lives.
I am definitely intrigued for the next book. On a personal preference, I am hoping for a lot more marital arts action, just unlocking a new spiritual power to win the day. I am also interested I who Bingmei chooses, I know who my preference for her is, but is that destiny already written?
June 24, 2020
3.5 stars
You can read all of my reviews at https://www.NerdGirlLovesBooks.com.
This is the second book in the "The Grave Kingdom" series and it's full of action. Bingmei and her trusty companions travel the lengths of the continent fighting the Dragon of Night to resist her destiny.
After a short break in their compound, Bingmei and her friends flee through caves and mountains once Eichon's minions find her with orders to capture, not kill. Despite her efforts to help cities shore up their defenses against Eichon's forces, the cities fall one after another. Bingmei is able to escape Eichon's clutches several times, but she cannot escape her fate. She finally decides she has no choice but to go over the Death Wall and face her fate head-on. I can't wait to see how the story ends in the next book.
This book was entertaining, but looking back it seemed like one long, fight montage. Bingmei and her fighters find a place they think is safe, they are found by Eichon's forces, and flee. Eichon's forces chase them. Rinse and repeat. Occasionally Bingmei and her friends are captured and then escape at the nick of time, only to be captured again. Rinse and repeat. I enjoyed the book, but it was fairly repetitive and appeared to be mostly filler to stretch the series into three books. This book didn't do much to advance the story.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
You can read all of my reviews at https://www.NerdGirlLovesBooks.com.
This is the second book in the "The Grave Kingdom" series and it's full of action. Bingmei and her trusty companions travel the lengths of the continent fighting the Dragon of Night to resist her destiny.
After a short break in their compound, Bingmei and her friends flee through caves and mountains once Eichon's minions find her with orders to capture, not kill. Despite her efforts to help cities shore up their defenses against Eichon's forces, the cities fall one after another. Bingmei is able to escape Eichon's clutches several times, but she cannot escape her fate. She finally decides she has no choice but to go over the Death Wall and face her fate head-on. I can't wait to see how the story ends in the next book.
This book was entertaining, but looking back it seemed like one long, fight montage. Bingmei and her fighters find a place they think is safe, they are found by Eichon's forces, and flee. Eichon's forces chase them. Rinse and repeat. Occasionally Bingmei and her friends are captured and then escape at the nick of time, only to be captured again. Rinse and repeat. I enjoyed the book, but it was fairly repetitive and appeared to be mostly filler to stretch the series into three books. This book didn't do much to advance the story.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2020
Thank you so so much to 47North via NetGalley for my e-ARC of The Buried World by Jeff Wheeler. After reading both Muirwood trilogies, both Kingfountain trilogies, and the Mirrowen books, I can firmly say that Wheeler is becoming one of my favorite authors and I was so thrilled to be able to review this.
The Buried World picks up where The Killing Fog left off, and I will keep this spoiler free so don't worry. If you read The Killing Fog and felt that it was a little long, rest assured that The Buried World is considerably shorter and moves along at a quick pace.
These books are a slow burn for sure though, Wheeler takes time to build this world and it's mythology, revealing the legends over time and also taking time to build the characters.
Bingmei had a lot of self discovery and acceptance and personal hurdles to overcome in this novel. She had to lead the ensign while making decisions based off her own instincts...which after book 1 were obviously hard to trust. I loved the friendships and relationship building in this, even between the siblings and the members of the ensign. This is 100% one of Wheeler's most intricate groups of characters. A little brutality, a little redemption, he puts his characters through the ringer and I just love love love the determination and resolve that the remaining group has mustered.
Have I mentioned how much I love Rowen yet? I like know he's the other half of the phoenix and wish it would just happen already.
Wheeler also mentions in the afterword that he was inspired by accounts of near death experiences and dreams to write Bingmei's death sequences. From someone who deals with a lot of death, I really like how he had handled this so far. Wheeler tends to get preachy sometimes but he has done a really good job sticking to the made up mythology of The Grave Kingdom, without bringing a lot of Christianity into this...yet.
I also just want to mention how much I love magical walls - the Death Wall is right up there with the D'yer wall in the Green Rider books, and the Wall in the Old Kingdom books. There is just something magical about walls built on the blood and bones of our ancestors.
All in all - as much as I love this there is something keeping it from being a 5 star read. I think it just burns a tad bit slow for me in some places, then starts racing towards the end. I would call it a 4.5 star and definitely recommend for fantasy fans and people looking for clean reads, clean fantasy, Christian fantasy.
The Buried World picks up where The Killing Fog left off, and I will keep this spoiler free so don't worry. If you read The Killing Fog and felt that it was a little long, rest assured that The Buried World is considerably shorter and moves along at a quick pace.
These books are a slow burn for sure though, Wheeler takes time to build this world and it's mythology, revealing the legends over time and also taking time to build the characters.
Bingmei had a lot of self discovery and acceptance and personal hurdles to overcome in this novel. She had to lead the ensign while making decisions based off her own instincts...which after book 1 were obviously hard to trust. I loved the friendships and relationship building in this, even between the siblings and the members of the ensign. This is 100% one of Wheeler's most intricate groups of characters. A little brutality, a little redemption, he puts his characters through the ringer and I just love love love the determination and resolve that the remaining group has mustered.
Have I mentioned how much I love Rowen yet? I like know he's the other half of the phoenix and wish it would just happen already.
Wheeler also mentions in the afterword that he was inspired by accounts of near death experiences and dreams to write Bingmei's death sequences. From someone who deals with a lot of death, I really like how he had handled this so far. Wheeler tends to get preachy sometimes but he has done a really good job sticking to the made up mythology of The Grave Kingdom, without bringing a lot of Christianity into this...yet.
I also just want to mention how much I love magical walls - the Death Wall is right up there with the D'yer wall in the Green Rider books, and the Wall in the Old Kingdom books. There is just something magical about walls built on the blood and bones of our ancestors.
All in all - as much as I love this there is something keeping it from being a 5 star read. I think it just burns a tad bit slow for me in some places, then starts racing towards the end. I would call it a 4.5 star and definitely recommend for fantasy fans and people looking for clean reads, clean fantasy, Christian fantasy.
Read
May 17, 2020Review to come.
May 25, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The Buried World picks up right after the first book. Bingmei continues to struggle with the demands others put on her to sacrifice herself. Echion is ever vigilant over the kingdom, squashing insurrection and the nobility, promoting those who will enforce the martial laws, and constantly chasing Bingmei. His rule cannot be complete without his dragon queen.
Bingmei continues in her moral struggles. These are some of my favorite scenes as she grows into the person she becomes by the end of the book. She is driven and relentless in wanting to do right. She has to know who she is to know how to best help others and defy Emperor Echion. Sometimes, her choices seem like they'll make everything worse - and they do, but she has to trust herself and take action.
If I were to hypothesize on a moral lesson from this series, I would take the themes of forgiveness and knowing who you are. In that way, The Buried World is a coming of age story at its heart - and we all need a little forgiveness.
By the midpoint in the novel, hang-on to your seat for the rest of the ride. The tension ramps up even more in this adventure series. Friends are discovered, betrayals hit forgiveness is found, love is a driving force, evil is overwhelming, the odds are stacked against our hero. Is death really the only answer?
If you enjoy fantasy novels with interesting worlds, you won't want to miss The Immortal Words. Even though this one ends on a cliffhanger - which I liked since it's full of intriguing possibilities - the next in the series, The Immortal Words is scheduled to come out on September 22, 2020.
You can check out more book reviews and author interviews at www.talesuntangled.wordpress.com
The Buried World picks up right after the first book. Bingmei continues to struggle with the demands others put on her to sacrifice herself. Echion is ever vigilant over the kingdom, squashing insurrection and the nobility, promoting those who will enforce the martial laws, and constantly chasing Bingmei. His rule cannot be complete without his dragon queen.
Bingmei continues in her moral struggles. These are some of my favorite scenes as she grows into the person she becomes by the end of the book. She is driven and relentless in wanting to do right. She has to know who she is to know how to best help others and defy Emperor Echion. Sometimes, her choices seem like they'll make everything worse - and they do, but she has to trust herself and take action.
If I were to hypothesize on a moral lesson from this series, I would take the themes of forgiveness and knowing who you are. In that way, The Buried World is a coming of age story at its heart - and we all need a little forgiveness.
By the midpoint in the novel, hang-on to your seat for the rest of the ride. The tension ramps up even more in this adventure series. Friends are discovered, betrayals hit forgiveness is found, love is a driving force, evil is overwhelming, the odds are stacked against our hero. Is death really the only answer?
If you enjoy fantasy novels with interesting worlds, you won't want to miss The Immortal Words. Even though this one ends on a cliffhanger - which I liked since it's full of intriguing possibilities - the next in the series, The Immortal Words is scheduled to come out on September 22, 2020.
You can check out more book reviews and author interviews at www.talesuntangled.wordpress.com
March 15, 2020
I recieved this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book it´s 3.5 stars. I liked this book very much buuuut not as the first book. Bingmei is one of my female characters of all time and in this book she surprised me a lot!
It´s very dificult to talk about this because spoilers but in this part all the characters are awesome! all of them grew a lot and have many personal issues that are dificult to resolve. All this world is amazing in all things, in kingdoms, characters, structure, magic, etc...
And again, a lot of girl power and that is awesome! we need more stronge female characters in fantasy and all the books! I am very sure Bingmei is going to be a very strong and legendary woman in fantastic literature and i am very anxious for the 3rd book!!! because OMG HOW THIS IS GOING TO END!?
This book it´s 3.5 stars. I liked this book very much buuuut not as the first book. Bingmei is one of my female characters of all time and in this book she surprised me a lot!
It´s very dificult to talk about this because spoilers but in this part all the characters are awesome! all of them grew a lot and have many personal issues that are dificult to resolve. All this world is amazing in all things, in kingdoms, characters, structure, magic, etc...
And again, a lot of girl power and that is awesome! we need more stronge female characters in fantasy and all the books! I am very sure Bingmei is going to be a very strong and legendary woman in fantastic literature and i am very anxious for the 3rd book!!! because OMG HOW THIS IS GOING TO END!?
September 29, 2020
Solid book two, adventure continues.
The journey continues complete with continuous action, questions answered, new challenges rise. Good pace, solid story, onto book three! Thank you Jeff Wheeler.
The journey continues complete with continuous action, questions answered, new challenges rise. Good pace, solid story, onto book three! Thank you Jeff Wheeler.
September 21, 2020
Check out the full review for The Killing Fog (The Grave Kingdom #2) on my website. CLICK HERE
Check out the full review on my website. CLICK HERE
FOLLOW ME ON : TWITTER INSTAGRAM
FR REVIEW :
DISCLAIMER : Thank you, Netgalley and 47North for providing me with an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Buried World is the second book in The Grave Kingdom series. The series is Chinese inspired with a fantastical world and a great cast of characters carrying the story forward. I read The Killing Fog, the first book in this series last year, and thoroughly enjoyed it. This series picks up from where the story left off in the first book. We follow Bingmei as she and her ensign is fleeing from Echion and his army of mercenaries. Kingdoms have fallen; Echion is raging war against anyone who dares to defy him. He is forcing Iron Rules on his subjects. Things are rapidly changing in the entire world. Echion wants to raise his Queen Xisi and requires Bingmei to raise her from the dead. Rowen promises to bring Bingmei to Echion to escape cruelty at the hands of Echion. I loved the cast of characters the book offered. All were unique and wonderful. I found a lot of them entertaining and engaging. The dynamics within the group were great to see. I liked how they gave Bingmei her respect despite her being the youngest leader to lead an ensign. The high stakes situations and tension-filled escape sequences were amazing. We get to explore the world as it expands and see more of it. The characters are also developing and it was great to see that as well. The writing is good and the pacing was just right to keep me interested and engaged with the book. I also loved the limits the magic has in this book while being endless with possibilities at times. I loved this book, though not as much as the first book. I gave it 4.5 stars, but I still think it's an enjoyable read. I highly recommend checking this book out if you love YA fantasy set in a different world and interesting magic system that involves killing fog and ancient relics. I believe this book will be perfect for a younger audience who enjoys reading about ancient mythology, kingdoms, and immortal tyrant rulers.
Check out the full review on my website. CLICK HERE
FOLLOW ME ON : TWITTER INSTAGRAM
FR REVIEW :
DISCLAIMER : Thank you, Netgalley and 47North for providing me with an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Buried World is the second book in The Grave Kingdom series. The series is Chinese inspired with a fantastical world and a great cast of characters carrying the story forward. I read The Killing Fog, the first book in this series last year, and thoroughly enjoyed it. This series picks up from where the story left off in the first book. We follow Bingmei as she and her ensign is fleeing from Echion and his army of mercenaries. Kingdoms have fallen; Echion is raging war against anyone who dares to defy him. He is forcing Iron Rules on his subjects. Things are rapidly changing in the entire world. Echion wants to raise his Queen Xisi and requires Bingmei to raise her from the dead. Rowen promises to bring Bingmei to Echion to escape cruelty at the hands of Echion. I loved the cast of characters the book offered. All were unique and wonderful. I found a lot of them entertaining and engaging. The dynamics within the group were great to see. I liked how they gave Bingmei her respect despite her being the youngest leader to lead an ensign. The high stakes situations and tension-filled escape sequences were amazing. We get to explore the world as it expands and see more of it. The characters are also developing and it was great to see that as well. The writing is good and the pacing was just right to keep me interested and engaged with the book. I also loved the limits the magic has in this book while being endless with possibilities at times. I loved this book, though not as much as the first book. I gave it 4.5 stars, but I still think it's an enjoyable read. I highly recommend checking this book out if you love YA fantasy set in a different world and interesting magic system that involves killing fog and ancient relics. I believe this book will be perfect for a younger audience who enjoys reading about ancient mythology, kingdoms, and immortal tyrant rulers.
June 15, 2020
The Buried World by Jeff Wheeler takes us on the next leg of Bingmei’s heroic journey to save her world from the evil Echion, the recently revived dragon king who is as evil as the evilest despot that you can imagine.
What I Loved
The tone of this installment of the series fluctuates between hopelessness and determination, whereas the first book was full of wonder and fear. Echion does not leave room for a positive tone as he proves his absolute might to an unexpecting world. No one can escape him, though many have died trying. He knows all, sees all, and is more than willing to kill all, of which there is no doubt.
Bingmei is feeling the weight of being the Phoenix-chosen, the only one that can stop him. She fights her destiny, as her natural inclination toward survival kicks in - her choices to save the world conflict with those she instinctually makes to save herself and her friends. It’s a harsh realization for her to make, and that is adequately reflected in the weighty tone.
All of the characters, who help Bingmei, face individual challenges. These challenges aid in the growth, development, and complexity of each character that I have grown to love and admire. Each death that takes place, though inevitable, is one more character I will miss along the way. And each success against all the odds is ones that I celebrate for the characters as they have too much work to do to allow themselves to take the time to rejoice.
My favorite character is still Quion. I can imagine him running along, hefting his too-heavy backpack full of essentials, pots, and pans jangling, and his snow leopard companion by his side. He is so endearing with his unfailing determination and friendship. His survival skills are so ingenious that they alone reflect the complexity of his character, who otherwise would seem inconsequential in a fight for life against an unstoppable foe.
The power of forgiveness sticks with me. Bingmei is compelled to forgive one of the last people she would ever expect to bestow this gift upon, and in its subtle way, it truly begins to turn the tide and is more magical then than any Phoenix blade, mei wood staff or mei wood cricket. Sometimes it’s the small things that can make the difference when all hope is lost.
I also sympathize with Rowen’s struggles as he tries to find where his destiny lies. Instinctively he knows he has a role to play, but challenges and people try to convince him otherwise. Whereas Bingmei wears her specialness, Rowen does not have any outward markers, which proves more challenging than the weight of Bingmei’s destiny.
I love everything about this story – it’s intricately woven characters who each reflect characteristics that are as strong as the smells that emanate from them, it’s beautiful and deadly setting and its universal themes that are just beginning to emerge. I especially love the rune magic and the dragon lore, as these add more wonder to an already beautiful world.
To Read or Not to Read
Lovers of epic fantasy will be missing out if they don’t pick up this new series by Jeff Wheeler. I give it six stars on a scale of 1-5 and whole-heartedly rave about it.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
What I Loved
The tone of this installment of the series fluctuates between hopelessness and determination, whereas the first book was full of wonder and fear. Echion does not leave room for a positive tone as he proves his absolute might to an unexpecting world. No one can escape him, though many have died trying. He knows all, sees all, and is more than willing to kill all, of which there is no doubt.
Bingmei is feeling the weight of being the Phoenix-chosen, the only one that can stop him. She fights her destiny, as her natural inclination toward survival kicks in - her choices to save the world conflict with those she instinctually makes to save herself and her friends. It’s a harsh realization for her to make, and that is adequately reflected in the weighty tone.
All of the characters, who help Bingmei, face individual challenges. These challenges aid in the growth, development, and complexity of each character that I have grown to love and admire. Each death that takes place, though inevitable, is one more character I will miss along the way. And each success against all the odds is ones that I celebrate for the characters as they have too much work to do to allow themselves to take the time to rejoice.
My favorite character is still Quion. I can imagine him running along, hefting his too-heavy backpack full of essentials, pots, and pans jangling, and his snow leopard companion by his side. He is so endearing with his unfailing determination and friendship. His survival skills are so ingenious that they alone reflect the complexity of his character, who otherwise would seem inconsequential in a fight for life against an unstoppable foe.
The power of forgiveness sticks with me. Bingmei is compelled to forgive one of the last people she would ever expect to bestow this gift upon, and in its subtle way, it truly begins to turn the tide and is more magical then than any Phoenix blade, mei wood staff or mei wood cricket. Sometimes it’s the small things that can make the difference when all hope is lost.
I also sympathize with Rowen’s struggles as he tries to find where his destiny lies. Instinctively he knows he has a role to play, but challenges and people try to convince him otherwise. Whereas Bingmei wears her specialness, Rowen does not have any outward markers, which proves more challenging than the weight of Bingmei’s destiny.
I love everything about this story – it’s intricately woven characters who each reflect characteristics that are as strong as the smells that emanate from them, it’s beautiful and deadly setting and its universal themes that are just beginning to emerge. I especially love the rune magic and the dragon lore, as these add more wonder to an already beautiful world.
To Read or Not to Read
Lovers of epic fantasy will be missing out if they don’t pick up this new series by Jeff Wheeler. I give it six stars on a scale of 1-5 and whole-heartedly rave about it.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 20, 2020
ARC received from NetGalley and Jeff Wheeler in exchange for my honest review.
Bingmei and her ensign are on the run from Echion while trying to figure out how to save their world. This second book in the series takes us on a journey through Echion's kingdom where we learn a little more about his power and where we meet Xisi for the first time. Bingmei comes to grips with her fate and is determined to see it done with the help of her friends. She and those around her also learn the power of forgiveness. Rowen and Bingmei's relationship continues to strengthen and change.
This book gave me anxiety towards the end because I knew there's so much more to the story, but I was too close to the end of the book to have anything resolved! I'm excited for the next book in September. While this is not my favorite series by this author, it's a solid read and worth your time.
I love the writing style of Jeff Wheeler's stories. He also gets the next book out quickly so you're not waiting months or years (looking at you George RR Martin) to find out what happens next. There is always a very strong theme of good versus evil. The characters aren't all good or necessarily all bad, they are human with human failings and growth. I like the fantasy/magic element to them as well. These are stories that I can recommend to high schoolers because they're not full of extra trash.
Bingmei and her ensign are on the run from Echion while trying to figure out how to save their world. This second book in the series takes us on a journey through Echion's kingdom where we learn a little more about his power and where we meet Xisi for the first time. Bingmei comes to grips with her fate and is determined to see it done with the help of her friends. She and those around her also learn the power of forgiveness. Rowen and Bingmei's relationship continues to strengthen and change.
This book gave me anxiety towards the end because I knew there's so much more to the story, but I was too close to the end of the book to have anything resolved! I'm excited for the next book in September. While this is not my favorite series by this author, it's a solid read and worth your time.
I love the writing style of Jeff Wheeler's stories. He also gets the next book out quickly so you're not waiting months or years (looking at you George RR Martin) to find out what happens next. There is always a very strong theme of good versus evil. The characters aren't all good or necessarily all bad, they are human with human failings and growth. I like the fantasy/magic element to them as well. These are stories that I can recommend to high schoolers because they're not full of extra trash.
July 21, 2020
In the second book of the series, The Buried World, Bingmei is faced with the prophecy that she must willingly sacrifice her life and cross the Death Wall. But why should she do that? Why should she give up her life to save greedy hateful and wicked people? Bingmei has an extra sense that gives her the power to sense a person’s intent, and has found the people are lacking in compassion, decency, and love. Instead, Bingmei seeks to defeat Echion in a different way and embarks on a mission with Rowen and her own Ensign.
But Echion is searching for Bingmei, and he plans to force her power of writing Glyphs to awaken his Dread Queen Xisi. Echion has united all the criminal bands under his rule, and they are searching high and low for Bingmei. She will inevitably be captured, but she uses her secret powers and Meiwood weapons to convert some of Echion’s men to join her cause.
Unfortunately, the Meiwood sword compels Bingmei to do what she wished she never would. Can she survive Echion’s wrath?
But Echion is searching for Bingmei, and he plans to force her power of writing Glyphs to awaken his Dread Queen Xisi. Echion has united all the criminal bands under his rule, and they are searching high and low for Bingmei. She will inevitably be captured, but she uses her secret powers and Meiwood weapons to convert some of Echion’s men to join her cause.
Unfortunately, the Meiwood sword compels Bingmei to do what she wished she never would. Can she survive Echion’s wrath?
December 31, 2020
This is the second book in the series and whilst the first was a little slow this one moved along much more quickly and was more dramatic. There is action in every chapter and many times you feel that evil has won the day only for the heroine to survive and fight on. There is some love interest building very slowly and the characters are now much more developed. This is a fight of good vs evil where the odds are heavily stacked against the good. I am looking forward to reading the last book of the series.
July 5, 2021
This was a good, short book. Wheeler steers away from "middle-book syndrome" by bringing action and drama into this book. Of course, he starts out with a little bit of MBS but manages to get past the malaise and not waste an entire installment of his trilogy on characters hiding and strategizing in ways that will eventually fail. The story is engaging, but can also be set down and picked up, much like the first book. The ending oozes into the third book, nothing surprising or magnificent, but it is nice to finish a second book of a trilogy without rolling my eyes at it.
August 10, 2020
The worst thing about this book is having to wait for the next one in the series to come out. I really enjoyed Burred World. Good summer read.
September 2, 2020
2nd book in the series. Couldn’t put this down already preordered the final book.
January 5, 2023
I give this 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sophomores books usually suffer!
Action was less than Book one
But the story Is still engaging
Sophomores books usually suffer!
Action was less than Book one
But the story Is still engaging
March 15, 2020
I recieved this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book it´s 3.5 stars. I liked this book very much buuuut not as the first book. Bingmei is one of my female characters of all time and in this book she surprised me a lot!
It´s very dificult to talk about this because spoilers but in this part all the characters are awesome! all of them grew a lot and have many personal issues that are dificult to resolve. All this world is amazing in all things, in kingdoms, characters, structure, magic, etc...
And again, a lot of girl power and that is awesome! we need more stronge female characters in fantasy and all the books! I am very sure Bingmei is going to be a very strong and legendary woman in fantastic literature and i am very anxious for the 3rd book!!! because OMG HOW THIS IS GOING TO END!?
This book it´s 3.5 stars. I liked this book very much buuuut not as the first book. Bingmei is one of my female characters of all time and in this book she surprised me a lot!
It´s very dificult to talk about this because spoilers but in this part all the characters are awesome! all of them grew a lot and have many personal issues that are dificult to resolve. All this world is amazing in all things, in kingdoms, characters, structure, magic, etc...
And again, a lot of girl power and that is awesome! we need more stronge female characters in fantasy and all the books! I am very sure Bingmei is going to be a very strong and legendary woman in fantastic literature and i am very anxious for the 3rd book!!! because OMG HOW THIS IS GOING TO END!?
April 30, 2020
Thanks so much to NetGalley and 47North for letting me read and review another incredible book by Jeff Wheeler. He's one of my favorite authors and I love everything he writes. His stories are always very well written, intriguing, and take me on emotional rollercoaster rides and journeys alongside his characters as they go through trials, learn, grow and discover truths about themselves and what they're meant to do with their lives.
In this second installment in this series, it picks up pretty much from right where it ended with the first book. We continue on, following and going along with Bingmei on her journey to discover answers and figure out what to do now that she's awakened the dragon, Echion, who wishes to take over the world and craves all the power. Echion also wants Bingmei to awaken his queen, Xisi so that they can rule over everyone and everything.
Bingmei still fights her destiny to be a hero, to cross the Death Wall and save the world and in this book, she goes back and forth with herself as she continues on the journey with her friends and comrades trying to find an answer for herself and then coming to a decision and having to learn to accept it for herself. She has to learn to accept herself and how to control her powers and such so she can be ready to do what's necessary and be the hero she's destined to be.
As things continue through this story, we find out and get to know more about her companions, more background and info on them, and Echion and his queen, Xisi, and also some more about the Death Wall. Also along the way, there's some romance, contention, and love that's been around for more than one life but cannot be acted upon at this time. We also learn more about the different talents and magics each person has and can use.
And once again at the end of this book, everything suddenly flips upside down and they find themselves in some intense and stressful situations. While you're trying to figure out what's happening, you suddenly find yourself racing to read the end to see what happens and left on a major cliffhanger. I'm dying here wanting to know what happens next in the epic and thrilling conclusion of this amazing series!
If you like dragons, magic, ancient legends, ancient myths, and all, then you're going to want to have this one marked, pre-ordered, and read it as soon as possible! Also, make sure to read the first book, you're not going to want to miss this fantastic read!
In this second installment in this series, it picks up pretty much from right where it ended with the first book. We continue on, following and going along with Bingmei on her journey to discover answers and figure out what to do now that she's awakened the dragon, Echion, who wishes to take over the world and craves all the power. Echion also wants Bingmei to awaken his queen, Xisi so that they can rule over everyone and everything.
Bingmei still fights her destiny to be a hero, to cross the Death Wall and save the world and in this book, she goes back and forth with herself as she continues on the journey with her friends and comrades trying to find an answer for herself and then coming to a decision and having to learn to accept it for herself. She has to learn to accept herself and how to control her powers and such so she can be ready to do what's necessary and be the hero she's destined to be.
As things continue through this story, we find out and get to know more about her companions, more background and info on them, and Echion and his queen, Xisi, and also some more about the Death Wall. Also along the way, there's some romance, contention, and love that's been around for more than one life but cannot be acted upon at this time. We also learn more about the different talents and magics each person has and can use.
And once again at the end of this book, everything suddenly flips upside down and they find themselves in some intense and stressful situations. While you're trying to figure out what's happening, you suddenly find yourself racing to read the end to see what happens and left on a major cliffhanger. I'm dying here wanting to know what happens next in the epic and thrilling conclusion of this amazing series!
If you like dragons, magic, ancient legends, ancient myths, and all, then you're going to want to have this one marked, pre-ordered, and read it as soon as possible! Also, make sure to read the first book, you're not going to want to miss this fantastic read!
May 12, 2020
Thank you to the publishers, author and NetGalley for the free e-arc!
I honestly can't get enough of Jeff Wheeler's writing. It is so easy to get lost in the world he creates, and I am in love with this series!
This book, the second in the series, answers some of the questions that the first book brings. Yet, at the end we are still left waiting for more answers. I loved getting to know Bingmei and her companions more, and getting to see the bonds she forms. The details that are put into this story are astounding.
I truly cannot wait to see what happens in the next book!!!
I honestly can't get enough of Jeff Wheeler's writing. It is so easy to get lost in the world he creates, and I am in love with this series!
This book, the second in the series, answers some of the questions that the first book brings. Yet, at the end we are still left waiting for more answers. I loved getting to know Bingmei and her companions more, and getting to see the bonds she forms. The details that are put into this story are astounding.
I truly cannot wait to see what happens in the next book!!!
September 18, 2020
I could kick myself, honestly. I thought I had already written a review for this book a long time ago. I’m seriously annoyed with myself, because Jeff Wheeler has become such a favorite author and I love getting ARC’s of his books. I hate to think I didn’t treat this one with the respect it deserves.
This being the second book in the series you can find my review of the first book, The Killing Fog at the link.
I have been enjoying this series. It’s a little different from his other series because it is asian inspired. It is reminiscent of a wuxia type movie. As with other Jeff Wheeler books it features some very strong female characters, and absolutely flies by. The second half of this book in particular was a wild ride. If you enjoyed the first book, you will not be disappointed with this second installment.
Disclaimer: I received this book free from Netgalley.
This being the second book in the series you can find my review of the first book, The Killing Fog at the link.
I have been enjoying this series. It’s a little different from his other series because it is asian inspired. It is reminiscent of a wuxia type movie. As with other Jeff Wheeler books it features some very strong female characters, and absolutely flies by. The second half of this book in particular was a wild ride. If you enjoyed the first book, you will not be disappointed with this second installment.
Disclaimer: I received this book free from Netgalley.
July 5, 2020
https://book-bucket.com/2020/07/05/th...
Rounded up to 4.5 Stars.
Oh my goodness I am enjoying reading through this trilogy. In my experience the middle book of a trilogy usually the least exciting, the one you need to read through to get to the exciting conclusion (being the third book).
Not in this case! The Buried World is every bit as good as the first book, The Killing Fog. The action continues and the characterisations develop nicely. And throughout there is Jeff Wheeler's lovely writing. I have become quite a fan of his description's of Bingmei's gift and the way he slips them into the prose seamlessly as though it is the most natural thing in the world.
I can't wait until the final book!
Rounded up to 4.5 Stars.
Oh my goodness I am enjoying reading through this trilogy. In my experience the middle book of a trilogy usually the least exciting, the one you need to read through to get to the exciting conclusion (being the third book).
Not in this case! The Buried World is every bit as good as the first book, The Killing Fog. The action continues and the characterisations develop nicely. And throughout there is Jeff Wheeler's lovely writing. I have become quite a fan of his description's of Bingmei's gift and the way he slips them into the prose seamlessly as though it is the most natural thing in the world.
I can't wait until the final book!
March 6, 2020
I just love every book I've read by Jeff Wheeler - and the Buried World is a more than worthy continuation of his Grave Kingdom series. Excellent characters, excellent story and world building, and a touch of magic - it's all there. This series is quite different from his Kingfountain series, as it is based more on Chinese fantasy or fairy tales. But the usual foundation is there - a brave and honorable young girl doing her best to save her world, and I am completely enjoying the story of Bingmei as she struggles to save this new and interesting world. Many thanks to NetGalley and 47North for the e-arc. Read it! His stories are wonderful!
January 2, 2021
I've read every book of his Kingfountain series, Legends of muirwood, Convenant of muirwood, Whispers from mirrowen, and Harbringer series.
This is the first series I can't finish simply because the story is not interesting. The protagonist is dislikeable, unrelatable, and not someone you want to root for as a reader. The secondary characters are forgettable. The most interesting character is actually the antagonist, but he's fated to be on the wrong side every time he comes back to life.
Pretty disappointed with this one; I think he's changed his formulaic style of writing in this series. I would recommend skipping this one.
This is the first series I can't finish simply because the story is not interesting. The protagonist is dislikeable, unrelatable, and not someone you want to root for as a reader. The secondary characters are forgettable. The most interesting character is actually the antagonist, but he's fated to be on the wrong side every time he comes back to life.
Pretty disappointed with this one; I think he's changed his formulaic style of writing in this series. I would recommend skipping this one.
August 2, 2023
It took ages to finish this book. Unfortunately the series did not improve. It was somewhat interesting but very childish still. I do think it must be young adult genre. It is painfully slow, the characters are too helpless and seem to be bumbling along the book without much purpose. Also the books are without any fun or lightness in them. Wheeler tries to be funny with one character but it just does not work. Sorry, I had to give it only two stars. It just did not work for me. I do not know if I will finish the last book. What a waste.
March 15, 2020
Another great addition to the Jeff Wheeler world. Really enjoyed this novel. Lots of excitement, intrigue, and adventure. I think like many series, and I say this a lot, this was a middle book in the series and had it’s slow moments and some unnecessary items. That seems to be very common and I don’t hold it against anyone because you have to have the bridge books. But I think overall still a great book
Thank you to 47North and Jeff Wheeler for providing me with an advanced reading copy.
Thank you to 47North and Jeff Wheeler for providing me with an advanced reading copy.
March 5, 2020
This review is for the first two in this series. These are solid fantasy tales told with a nice style and lots of good imagination. The author has been around a while and knows how to tell a good story with well formed characters, an engaging plot, and some nice surprises. I'm not a huge fantasy fan, but this worked for me.
Thanks very much for the ARC for review!!
Thanks very much for the ARC for review!!
January 25, 2021
It's just not very interesting.
July 27, 2020
Star Rating: 4 stars
Note: This book is the 2nd installment of the Grave Kingdom series so this will not be an in-depth review.
After thoroughly enjoying book 1 of the Grave Kingdom series, The Killing Fog, I was very excited to read book 2, The Buried World. I have to admit that I didn’t enjoy this installment as much as I did book 1, and my rating reflects that, but I did think this was a good bridge book for book 3.
The thing that I enjoyed most about this book and this series in general is the unique setting that Wheeler was able to create. He took the natural beauty of Alaska and combined it with the wonderful mythos/traditions of Asia to create a wonderful and interesting arena for his story. When you hear this description, you think how he could possibly make that work, but then he does, and you find out that not only does it work, it becomes your favorite part of the book.
Although I did enjoy the information that we learn in this book, there were some things in this one that really bothered me. For instance, there was some contextual mistakes within the narrative such as things we learned in book 1 being changed or altered in this book. Also, at this point, I have read multiple books and series by Wheeler and I find that he usually writes female characters extremely well, but for some reason I don’t find the characters in this series as compelling, actually Bingmei got on my nerves a lot. Finally, although I really enjoyed how detailed his fight scenes were in this book and the expertise that he had in order to make them detailed, but they did get kind of dry and repetitive. All in all, this book came across as rushed to me and this affected my enjoyment quite a lot and caused me to knock it off a star, but I do think that I will enjoy book 3 much more. 4 stars for this one!!!!!
Note: This book is the 2nd installment of the Grave Kingdom series so this will not be an in-depth review.
After thoroughly enjoying book 1 of the Grave Kingdom series, The Killing Fog, I was very excited to read book 2, The Buried World. I have to admit that I didn’t enjoy this installment as much as I did book 1, and my rating reflects that, but I did think this was a good bridge book for book 3.
The thing that I enjoyed most about this book and this series in general is the unique setting that Wheeler was able to create. He took the natural beauty of Alaska and combined it with the wonderful mythos/traditions of Asia to create a wonderful and interesting arena for his story. When you hear this description, you think how he could possibly make that work, but then he does, and you find out that not only does it work, it becomes your favorite part of the book.
Although I did enjoy the information that we learn in this book, there were some things in this one that really bothered me. For instance, there was some contextual mistakes within the narrative such as things we learned in book 1 being changed or altered in this book. Also, at this point, I have read multiple books and series by Wheeler and I find that he usually writes female characters extremely well, but for some reason I don’t find the characters in this series as compelling, actually Bingmei got on my nerves a lot. Finally, although I really enjoyed how detailed his fight scenes were in this book and the expertise that he had in order to make them detailed, but they did get kind of dry and repetitive. All in all, this book came across as rushed to me and this affected my enjoyment quite a lot and caused me to knock it off a star, but I do think that I will enjoy book 3 much more. 4 stars for this one!!!!!
June 23, 2020
This book picks up right where the first one left off. Bingmei and her rag-tag ensign are traveling through the mountain passes being chased by soldiers intent on capturing Bingmei and returning her to Echion. Echion must have Bingmei, for she is the only one who can wake his sleeping queen. Without his queen, Echion cannot obtain his full power.
Bingmei is still determined to escape her fate to sacrifice herself for a world beyond saving-but at what cost? Echion continues to kill and enslave all who oppose him. Their deaths and sacrifices for Bingmei weigh heavily upon her and she begins to regret her earlier decision to flee her fate. Is there anywhere she can go to escape Echion’s clutches?
Despite the evil and oppression Echion forces on the people, Bingmei represents hope and forgiveness. Her character grows immensely as her heart slowly begins to change and opens to the love and sacrifices made for her. As her heart softens she becomes aware of instructions and power given to her as she begins to embrace her role as the phoenix-chosen. Is she too late or will she still be given the chance to save them all?
Bingmei is still determined to escape her fate to sacrifice herself for a world beyond saving-but at what cost? Echion continues to kill and enslave all who oppose him. Their deaths and sacrifices for Bingmei weigh heavily upon her and she begins to regret her earlier decision to flee her fate. Is there anywhere she can go to escape Echion’s clutches?
Despite the evil and oppression Echion forces on the people, Bingmei represents hope and forgiveness. Her character grows immensely as her heart slowly begins to change and opens to the love and sacrifices made for her. As her heart softens she becomes aware of instructions and power given to her as she begins to embrace her role as the phoenix-chosen. Is she too late or will she still be given the chance to save them all?
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