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North #2
Night
After months in captivity, Apaay managed to escape Yuki's labyrinth with her life. But her freedom did not come without a steep cost. When the Face Stealer, the North's most notorious demon, calls in her blood oath, Apaay must heed his demand. Debts, after all, must be repaid.
As Apaay attempts to navigate her uprooted life, something dark slithers among the snow-dusted conifers of the North. A long-dead war is unfinished, and there are those who would see it revived. In a place where misplaced loyalty could mean her death, Apaay must look inward to repair her broken soul—for if she cannot place trust in those around her, she might find enemies are closer than they appear.
In this stunning follow-up to Below, Alexandria Warwick brings the second book in her dark and seductive North series to thrilling new heights.
As Apaay attempts to navigate her uprooted life, something dark slithers among the snow-dusted conifers of the North. A long-dead war is unfinished, and there are those who would see it revived. In a place where misplaced loyalty could mean her death, Apaay must look inward to repair her broken soul—for if she cannot place trust in those around her, she might find enemies are closer than they appear.
In this stunning follow-up to Below, Alexandria Warwick brings the second book in her dark and seductive North series to thrilling new heights.
392 pages, Hardcover
First published October 8, 2020
4 people are currently reading
461 people want to read
About the author
Alexandria Warwick
17 books890 followersAlexandria Warwick is the author of the Four Winds series and the North series. A classically trained violinist, she spends much of her time performing in orchestras. She lives in Florida.
To find out more, visit alexandriawarwick.com or follow @alexandriawarwick on Instagram.
To find out more, visit alexandriawarwick.com or follow @alexandriawarwick on Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
August 15, 2025
3.5 stars
Night was the sequel to Below that expanded on the first book well, although it was a bit too overwhelming at times.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Plot: 3.5/5
Characters: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
In this book, Apaay was out of survival mode and everything that had befallen her in the labyrinth came crashing down on her. Her trauma was explored in a raw, emotive manner, so much so that her guilt, grief and despair were almost palpable. I felt sad watching her push everyone trying to help her away and make choices that were clearly going to lead to more pain but she was in such a dark place and that was the only way she could cope.
Below was about Apaay realising her self worth and knowing that she was enough exactly the way she was. In Night, she had to learn to forgive herself and leave the past behind her. It was emotional watching her slowly see a glimmer of light in the darkness and begin to work towards it.
I was very surprised that Ila quickly became my favourite character. I loved her strength, wisdom and determination. In this book, it was her turn to go on a journey of self discovery and it was interesting to see her navigate her expanding world. I was sad that her friendship with Apaay broke down but I do understand the importance of walking away from friendships that bring nothing but pain. I still wish they could have communicated with each other more.
I think I was supposed to like the Face Stealer in this book... but I didn't. He has had some growth, there is a better side to him and he has shown remorse for previous events but I still think he has a long way to go before I can like him as a character. His intentions were always so murky and I never knew whether to take him at face value or not (pun not intended).
It was interesting to see Apaay's opinion of the Face Stealer shift but there were times when it hinted at a possible future romance between them and I really hope that doesn't happen! I would hate that. There would be an unsettling power imbalance and I can't see Apaay forgiving him enough to love him.
While Below was mostly confined to a shifting and perilous labyrinth, its sequel, Night, expanded greatly on the world. I loved the contrast between the tight, trapped atmosphere of the first book and the sense of vastness in the second as we got to learn more about the subtleties of the world. The plot was much slower paced than the first book and there is nothing wrong with that, but I didn't like how the pace sped up rapidly near the end making the ending feel rushed and confusing.
As Apaay's world increased the scope of the plot increased too. Suddenly, the stakes were much higher than Apaay's mission to save her sister. The fate of nations were balancing on a knife edge and war was on the horizon. However, one of my favourite aspects of Below was how personal it was to Apaay. As I closely followed her story I became more and more invested and compelled to keep reading. The widening of the plot's scope made me feel less engaged with the story as I had to get my head around all these new components and characters and therefore felt less connected to them all.
I understand that it was necessary for the story but it made the novel feel like a transition between the first and third upcoming book. Therefore, I enjoyed it less than the first. But because of this I am very excited to read the next book as now that the larger plot is established I think I will be more invested in the next part of the story!
Night was the sequel to Below that expanded on the first book well, although it was a bit too overwhelming at times.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Plot: 3.5/5
Characters: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
In this book, Apaay was out of survival mode and everything that had befallen her in the labyrinth came crashing down on her. Her trauma was explored in a raw, emotive manner, so much so that her guilt, grief and despair were almost palpable. I felt sad watching her push everyone trying to help her away and make choices that were clearly going to lead to more pain but she was in such a dark place and that was the only way she could cope.
Below was about Apaay realising her self worth and knowing that she was enough exactly the way she was. In Night, she had to learn to forgive herself and leave the past behind her. It was emotional watching her slowly see a glimmer of light in the darkness and begin to work towards it.
I was very surprised that Ila quickly became my favourite character. I loved her strength, wisdom and determination. In this book, it was her turn to go on a journey of self discovery and it was interesting to see her navigate her expanding world. I was sad that her friendship with Apaay broke down but I do understand the importance of walking away from friendships that bring nothing but pain. I still wish they could have communicated with each other more.
I think I was supposed to like the Face Stealer in this book... but I didn't. He has had some growth, there is a better side to him and he has shown remorse for previous events but I still think he has a long way to go before I can like him as a character. His intentions were always so murky and I never knew whether to take him at face value or not (pun not intended).
It was interesting to see Apaay's opinion of the Face Stealer shift but there were times when it hinted at a possible future romance between them and I really hope that doesn't happen! I would hate that. There would be an unsettling power imbalance and I can't see Apaay forgiving him enough to love him.
While Below was mostly confined to a shifting and perilous labyrinth, its sequel, Night, expanded greatly on the world. I loved the contrast between the tight, trapped atmosphere of the first book and the sense of vastness in the second as we got to learn more about the subtleties of the world. The plot was much slower paced than the first book and there is nothing wrong with that, but I didn't like how the pace sped up rapidly near the end making the ending feel rushed and confusing.
As Apaay's world increased the scope of the plot increased too. Suddenly, the stakes were much higher than Apaay's mission to save her sister. The fate of nations were balancing on a knife edge and war was on the horizon. However, one of my favourite aspects of Below was how personal it was to Apaay. As I closely followed her story I became more and more invested and compelled to keep reading. The widening of the plot's scope made me feel less engaged with the story as I had to get my head around all these new components and characters and therefore felt less connected to them all.
I understand that it was necessary for the story but it made the novel feel like a transition between the first and third upcoming book. Therefore, I enjoyed it less than the first. But because of this I am very excited to read the next book as now that the larger plot is established I think I will be more invested in the next part of the story!
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September 14, 2020Hi!
9.14.20
The pre-order campaign is now open until October 7, 2020 at 11:59 pm EST. Pre-order ANY format of Night and receive a digital swag pack with exclusive extras including a deleted scene, excerpts from book 3, and more! Pre-order a physical copy and receive an exclusive trading card in addition to the digital swag. To read the complete pre-order information and submit your receipt, click HERE.
2.27.20
ARC requests for Night are now open! If interested in reviewing an ARC, please sign up HERE.
9.14.20
The pre-order campaign is now open until October 7, 2020 at 11:59 pm EST. Pre-order ANY format of Night and receive a digital swag pack with exclusive extras including a deleted scene, excerpts from book 3, and more! Pre-order a physical copy and receive an exclusive trading card in addition to the digital swag. To read the complete pre-order information and submit your receipt, click HERE.
2.27.20
ARC requests for Night are now open! If interested in reviewing an ARC, please sign up HERE.
June 26, 2020
Find this review at Forever Lost in Literature!
Night is the impressive follow-up to Below, part of Warwick's North trilogy that is inspired by Inuit mythology and set in the Arctic. I really enjoyed the incorporation of Inuit mythology and the beautiful setting and story that Warwick created in the first book, so I was really excited to have a chance to read Night early., and I wasn't disappointed in the slightest.
Night felt considerably slower-paced than Below, but I think it matched the story well and I didn't find that it dragged, but rather allowed time for the character process various traumas and experiences from both the first book and their current situations. There is a lot to unpack and deal with, and I think Warwick matched the pace of the story nicely with the general atmosphere. This was much more character-driven than Below, and I really liked getting a chance to spend some more time with these characters. Unlike with Below, however, I wasn't pulled into this book as quickly as I was before, but I think a lot of that just has to do with the slower pace that I wasn't necessarily expecting. The plot slowly expands over the course of this book in a compelling manner, slowly incorporating more twists and detailed components that I enjoyed watching unfold.
Apaay continues to be an incredibly brave character never seems to stop fighting. Her internal struggles take over a lot of her focus and actions in this book and I found it to be a really relatable and authentic look at how much our lives can be overtaken by our thoughts and mental battles. No matter how exhausted she becomes by these struggles, though, Apaay holds strong and I loved following her journey. The other main players in this book would have to be the Face Stealer--and he's come a long way from his role in the first book! There were times when I almost forgot how he was in the first book and it almost felt jarring at times, but overall I think Warwick handled this transformation and multi-faceted nature of him in a really careful way that worked well. Another character we get a POV from is Ila, and I particularly enjoyed getting to see her own story continued from Below and how she has been growing and adapting to her new life.
One of the things that continues to most stand out to me about Warwick's books is how sincere they are and how deeply she explores some truly dark and difficult subjects. Warwick doesn't tiptoe around difficult situations or conversations, and she readily explores everything that her characters feel and experience, which is part of what brings them to life in such an authentic manner that really allows me to connect with them.
Overall, I've given Night four stars! There's so much more that I could say about this book, but since this is a sequel review I'm trying to refrain from going into too much detail. Night isn't out until October 8th, so there's plenty of time to pick up a copy of Below in preparation of its release! If you like exciting fantasy, Arctic settings, and richly drawn characters, then definitely give this series a read!
Night is the impressive follow-up to Below, part of Warwick's North trilogy that is inspired by Inuit mythology and set in the Arctic. I really enjoyed the incorporation of Inuit mythology and the beautiful setting and story that Warwick created in the first book, so I was really excited to have a chance to read Night early., and I wasn't disappointed in the slightest.
Night felt considerably slower-paced than Below, but I think it matched the story well and I didn't find that it dragged, but rather allowed time for the character process various traumas and experiences from both the first book and their current situations. There is a lot to unpack and deal with, and I think Warwick matched the pace of the story nicely with the general atmosphere. This was much more character-driven than Below, and I really liked getting a chance to spend some more time with these characters. Unlike with Below, however, I wasn't pulled into this book as quickly as I was before, but I think a lot of that just has to do with the slower pace that I wasn't necessarily expecting. The plot slowly expands over the course of this book in a compelling manner, slowly incorporating more twists and detailed components that I enjoyed watching unfold.
Apaay continues to be an incredibly brave character never seems to stop fighting. Her internal struggles take over a lot of her focus and actions in this book and I found it to be a really relatable and authentic look at how much our lives can be overtaken by our thoughts and mental battles. No matter how exhausted she becomes by these struggles, though, Apaay holds strong and I loved following her journey. The other main players in this book would have to be the Face Stealer--and he's come a long way from his role in the first book! There were times when I almost forgot how he was in the first book and it almost felt jarring at times, but overall I think Warwick handled this transformation and multi-faceted nature of him in a really careful way that worked well. Another character we get a POV from is Ila, and I particularly enjoyed getting to see her own story continued from Below and how she has been growing and adapting to her new life.
One of the things that continues to most stand out to me about Warwick's books is how sincere they are and how deeply she explores some truly dark and difficult subjects. Warwick doesn't tiptoe around difficult situations or conversations, and she readily explores everything that her characters feel and experience, which is part of what brings them to life in such an authentic manner that really allows me to connect with them.
Overall, I've given Night four stars! There's so much more that I could say about this book, but since this is a sequel review I'm trying to refrain from going into too much detail. Night isn't out until October 8th, so there's plenty of time to pick up a copy of Below in preparation of its release! If you like exciting fantasy, Arctic settings, and richly drawn characters, then definitely give this series a read!
July 23, 2021
slow start but i really enjoyed the end! all the characters have my heart
September 9, 2020
An ARC was sent to me by the author for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.
I have been struggling to find the words to describe how much I adored this book. It has everything I could want in a story and hits all the right notes. I love the characters, the worldbuilding, the tension and conflicts. It is such a rich and beautiful story.
There was a great deal of worldbuilding, as well as insight into the world’s history and backstory which led the Face Stealer and his allies to be in the present moment of the second book. It’s full of fantasy, and it worked so well. The creatures were terrifying but not too unbelievable, and I am still crazy about the Inuit lore. It’s such a fascinating culture.
The book had a much slower pace to it, but it worked well with the story and the anticipation of bigger things to come. There was a good amount of action and mystery that kept me hooked, and I could not put the book down for the life of me during those moments. There are also so many amazing reveals that by the end of it I was just gaping at the screen of my iPad. It ended with so many cliff-hangers and I have no idea what is going to happen next!
I loved the increased focus on the Face Stealer, or Numiak, as is his real name. We see more of his role in this whole conflict between the different Territories and the Unuma/shapeshifters, and we find out that not everything is as it seems. Should the kindness he is showing now erase what he did whilst he was in the labyrinth? His turbulent relationship with Apaay explores this question throughout the book.
I also loved how this book did not shy away about the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. We see Apaay, our strong and brave heroine in the first book, slowly deteriorate into a self-hating survivalist who struggles to find herself again and forgive herself for her past transgressions. Her home and her community have been destroyed and scattered, and she blames herself for all of it. She becomes very distant from her friends and family and struggles to understand her place as a survivor. She suffers from nightmares about what she has done for her family.
But the worst thing of all to her – the person who started all of this, the Face Stealer - is now her greatest ally against Yuki, the person who caused her all this pain. They must work together to stop the worst that is yet to come, a war that can end everything. They are quite the pairing; they balance each other out and they challenge each other at the same time.
Both Numiak and Apaay struggle to find a balance in their new relationship, and it was interesting to see how it unfolded and changed throughout the book. We see more behind the façade of the Face Stealer and look more into the complexities of Numiak, and how he became said Face Stealer. He is an extraordinarily complex individual and I have such a soft spot for him.
Apaay’s emotional and mental journey was by far the best part of this whole book. We see a whole new side of her – it is sad, dark, and a bit nerve-wracking because she pushes so many people away and is so sceptical of Numiak’s intentions and kindness. She goes through so many emotions, and her journey is just that – a struggle. Apaay wallows, and hurts, and works against her own interests and those of others until it’s too late. But she slowly finds her way back and learns how to accept and let go of the past. She doesn’t realize how her own mental health issues affect others around her, and she struggles with thinking outside of her own dark thoughts and assumptions.
Ila also takes more of an active role in this story and works on her own fears and lack of strength. I could really relate to Ila and her insecurities and seeing her work so hard to be strong and find out where she came from and who she is nothing short of inspiring. She is so full of love, and strength, and kindness, and she really cares about others. You also see her struggle with her friendship with Apaay, feeling angry, helpless and insecure, and it is heart-breaking. This creates a lot of friction between them, which is expected, but it is still painful to read.
This is such a magnificent story and I can’t wait to see what else is in store for this series. Tensions are at an all-time high and I can’t wait to see what Alexandria has up her sleeve for these characters’ journeys. So, if you’re looking for an amazing fantasy that is also diverse (i.e. definitely not white), I highly suggest this series! You can grab them from Book Depository with my affiliate link, which is at no extra cost to you.
Please check this series out, you will not regret it! If you also have any other recommendations of amazing fantasy books inspired by other less-known cultures, please let me know! I would love to hear them :D
I have been struggling to find the words to describe how much I adored this book. It has everything I could want in a story and hits all the right notes. I love the characters, the worldbuilding, the tension and conflicts. It is such a rich and beautiful story.
There was a great deal of worldbuilding, as well as insight into the world’s history and backstory which led the Face Stealer and his allies to be in the present moment of the second book. It’s full of fantasy, and it worked so well. The creatures were terrifying but not too unbelievable, and I am still crazy about the Inuit lore. It’s such a fascinating culture.
The book had a much slower pace to it, but it worked well with the story and the anticipation of bigger things to come. There was a good amount of action and mystery that kept me hooked, and I could not put the book down for the life of me during those moments. There are also so many amazing reveals that by the end of it I was just gaping at the screen of my iPad. It ended with so many cliff-hangers and I have no idea what is going to happen next!
I loved the increased focus on the Face Stealer, or Numiak, as is his real name. We see more of his role in this whole conflict between the different Territories and the Unuma/shapeshifters, and we find out that not everything is as it seems. Should the kindness he is showing now erase what he did whilst he was in the labyrinth? His turbulent relationship with Apaay explores this question throughout the book.
I also loved how this book did not shy away about the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. We see Apaay, our strong and brave heroine in the first book, slowly deteriorate into a self-hating survivalist who struggles to find herself again and forgive herself for her past transgressions. Her home and her community have been destroyed and scattered, and she blames herself for all of it. She becomes very distant from her friends and family and struggles to understand her place as a survivor. She suffers from nightmares about what she has done for her family.
But the worst thing of all to her – the person who started all of this, the Face Stealer - is now her greatest ally against Yuki, the person who caused her all this pain. They must work together to stop the worst that is yet to come, a war that can end everything. They are quite the pairing; they balance each other out and they challenge each other at the same time.
Both Numiak and Apaay struggle to find a balance in their new relationship, and it was interesting to see how it unfolded and changed throughout the book. We see more behind the façade of the Face Stealer and look more into the complexities of Numiak, and how he became said Face Stealer. He is an extraordinarily complex individual and I have such a soft spot for him.
Apaay’s emotional and mental journey was by far the best part of this whole book. We see a whole new side of her – it is sad, dark, and a bit nerve-wracking because she pushes so many people away and is so sceptical of Numiak’s intentions and kindness. She goes through so many emotions, and her journey is just that – a struggle. Apaay wallows, and hurts, and works against her own interests and those of others until it’s too late. But she slowly finds her way back and learns how to accept and let go of the past. She doesn’t realize how her own mental health issues affect others around her, and she struggles with thinking outside of her own dark thoughts and assumptions.
Ila also takes more of an active role in this story and works on her own fears and lack of strength. I could really relate to Ila and her insecurities and seeing her work so hard to be strong and find out where she came from and who she is nothing short of inspiring. She is so full of love, and strength, and kindness, and she really cares about others. You also see her struggle with her friendship with Apaay, feeling angry, helpless and insecure, and it is heart-breaking. This creates a lot of friction between them, which is expected, but it is still painful to read.
This is such a magnificent story and I can’t wait to see what else is in store for this series. Tensions are at an all-time high and I can’t wait to see what Alexandria has up her sleeve for these characters’ journeys. So, if you’re looking for an amazing fantasy that is also diverse (i.e. definitely not white), I highly suggest this series! You can grab them from Book Depository with my affiliate link, which is at no extra cost to you.
Please check this series out, you will not regret it! If you also have any other recommendations of amazing fantasy books inspired by other less-known cultures, please let me know! I would love to hear them :D
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2020
Night picks up straight after the events of Below. Apaay is free from the labyrinth and has been found on deaths door by an Analak villager, but they don’t trust Apaay. There are rumours going round of a young girl destroying Analak villages and they are unwilling to believe that Apaay, a girl they do not know, has nothing to do with it. But Apaay knows the truth after seeing the destruction Yuki left in her village, and she knows there is no hiding from it. So when the Face Stealer comes to call in his Blood Debt Apaay is unwilling to go, she wants to stay as far away from him and memories of her time in the Labyrinth, but he forces her using his magic. They travel to the Forest, a place he has created where all who seek refuge from Yuki are welcome. There he tells Apaay what he needs of her, Yuki stole something from him, and he cannot mention the item or where it is but needs Apaay to find it for him. A virtually impossible task, one that Apaay does not welcome, especially when it brings her closer to her family, the sister whose face she has restored and Ila, the girl she saved from the Labyrinth who doesn’t understand Apaay’s sudden aloofness. Misplaced loyalty, unlikely friendships and hidden enemies are all brought to light when an ancient war is re-ignited and Apaay will have to overcome her inner battles if she is going to fight her way out of this one.
Honestly, this book blew me away! It goes so much deeper than Below, both in the mythological sense and into the characters. We see Apaay struggling to deal with her time in the Labyrinth. She feels that the price she had to pay to survive was too high, killing the Polar Bear Unua and her beloved dog Nakaluq. She constantly feels as though she has blood on her hands, and cannot find it within her to trust or work with Numaik, even after he saves her family from certain death. She feels alone, not believing that anyone can truly understand what she went through and had to do, not without judging her. She trusts one person, one person who she feels understands her… Muzak the prisoner she helped escape from the Labyrinth. But Apaay may be putting her faith in the wrong person.
One new things we get in Night are chapters from Ila’s POV. I loved her character ARC in Below and she grows SO MUCH in Night. She never see’s her deafness as a weakness, and though she may start off a little meek she soon finds her place in the Forest. Finds people who believe in her, people who will train her and most importantly, people with knowledge of her past and where she comes from. Apaay and Ila both have their own journey’s and plots in Night but we only truly understand the importance of Ila’s chapters towards the end of the book.
As well as these two kick ass female leads we get introduced to a whole host of new characters as we as reintroduced to some of my faves from book one… Numiak really grew on me in Night. I don’t want to say too much without giving away spoilers, but you learn why he acts like he does, why he likes to keep Apaay at a distance and most importantly why he served Yuki in the labyrinth. And I will definitely admit to being a little in love with him by the end of the book.
Like I said we get a much deeper insight into our three main characters in Night, but as well as that the author gives us a rich and in depth understanding of Inuit culture. We learn all about the different Unua nations: Wolf, Polar Bear, Owl, Caribou and Seal. Warwick not only gives us the history of the different nations but a look into how they came to be. You know me and any kind of folklore/mythology so it wont be a surprise when I say I devoured those parts of the book. But it doesn’t just end there, with world building that actually takes you to some of the Unua’s homelands as well as to other Analak villages Warwick manages to bring a near hospitable world to life. Her descriptive writing drags you into the pages and places you right at the heart of the story, along Apaay and Ila and Numiak.
If you’re looking for disability rep then this is definitely the book for you. We have Ila who is deaf and Ro ( a new character) who is wheelchair bound, neither are treated any differently for their disabilities, nor looked at as weak, in face Ro is next in line to be the leader of his Unua nation. As well as this we have Apaay who is clearly struggling with some kind of PTSD after her time in the Labyrinth. I really felt the author dealt with this well, there were a few times when I got a little frustrated at her decision making, but when you think of what she suffered through at the hands of Yuki and Numiak you can understand her lack of trust.
The ending of this book had me screaming at my kindle! I thought Below was bad, but with Night Warwick has found a whole new way to torture her readers. With plot twits thrown in throughout we have no idea who is trustworthy, and it’s only when we get to the final chapter that we realised there was a bigger deception in play than we could have imagined. I wont lie, I’ve already put my request in for an ARC of book 3 and it cannot come soon enough. I cannot stress enough how good this series is and it’s such a hidden gem! If you love mythology/folklore, flawed characters, no heavy romance and brilliant descriptive writing then PLEASE give this a try… I can guarantee you wont be disappointed.
Honestly, this book blew me away! It goes so much deeper than Below, both in the mythological sense and into the characters. We see Apaay struggling to deal with her time in the Labyrinth. She feels that the price she had to pay to survive was too high, killing the Polar Bear Unua and her beloved dog Nakaluq. She constantly feels as though she has blood on her hands, and cannot find it within her to trust or work with Numaik, even after he saves her family from certain death. She feels alone, not believing that anyone can truly understand what she went through and had to do, not without judging her. She trusts one person, one person who she feels understands her… Muzak the prisoner she helped escape from the Labyrinth. But Apaay may be putting her faith in the wrong person.
One new things we get in Night are chapters from Ila’s POV. I loved her character ARC in Below and she grows SO MUCH in Night. She never see’s her deafness as a weakness, and though she may start off a little meek she soon finds her place in the Forest. Finds people who believe in her, people who will train her and most importantly, people with knowledge of her past and where she comes from. Apaay and Ila both have their own journey’s and plots in Night but we only truly understand the importance of Ila’s chapters towards the end of the book.
As well as these two kick ass female leads we get introduced to a whole host of new characters as we as reintroduced to some of my faves from book one… Numiak really grew on me in Night. I don’t want to say too much without giving away spoilers, but you learn why he acts like he does, why he likes to keep Apaay at a distance and most importantly why he served Yuki in the labyrinth. And I will definitely admit to being a little in love with him by the end of the book.
Like I said we get a much deeper insight into our three main characters in Night, but as well as that the author gives us a rich and in depth understanding of Inuit culture. We learn all about the different Unua nations: Wolf, Polar Bear, Owl, Caribou and Seal. Warwick not only gives us the history of the different nations but a look into how they came to be. You know me and any kind of folklore/mythology so it wont be a surprise when I say I devoured those parts of the book. But it doesn’t just end there, with world building that actually takes you to some of the Unua’s homelands as well as to other Analak villages Warwick manages to bring a near hospitable world to life. Her descriptive writing drags you into the pages and places you right at the heart of the story, along Apaay and Ila and Numiak.
If you’re looking for disability rep then this is definitely the book for you. We have Ila who is deaf and Ro ( a new character) who is wheelchair bound, neither are treated any differently for their disabilities, nor looked at as weak, in face Ro is next in line to be the leader of his Unua nation. As well as this we have Apaay who is clearly struggling with some kind of PTSD after her time in the Labyrinth. I really felt the author dealt with this well, there were a few times when I got a little frustrated at her decision making, but when you think of what she suffered through at the hands of Yuki and Numiak you can understand her lack of trust.
The ending of this book had me screaming at my kindle! I thought Below was bad, but with Night Warwick has found a whole new way to torture her readers. With plot twits thrown in throughout we have no idea who is trustworthy, and it’s only when we get to the final chapter that we realised there was a bigger deception in play than we could have imagined. I wont lie, I’ve already put my request in for an ARC of book 3 and it cannot come soon enough. I cannot stress enough how good this series is and it’s such a hidden gem! If you love mythology/folklore, flawed characters, no heavy romance and brilliant descriptive writing then PLEASE give this a try… I can guarantee you wont be disappointed.
October 8, 2020
Initial Thoughts
I applied to be an ARC reader for this title the second I found out Alexandria Warwick was looking! I absolutely loved Below and couldn’t wait to read this sequel. I just finished reading this book last night and it was incredible.
Some Things I Liked
Plot twists. As I’ve said in many other reviews, it’s very hard to surprise me. I’ve read hundreds of books and have seen many a plot twist so shock factor goes a long way with me. This book had all the drama and twists that even I didn’t see coming. They felt so organic and perfect for the story that I’m disappointed I didn’t see them coming myself. I’m also thrilled that the story kept me guessing so much.
Mental health representation. Below has some dark themes as North continued that trend. Apaay struggles with her mental health during a large portion of this book. I loved the way the other characters naturally came together to help Apaay through this time. This setting doesn’t have defined concepts of mental health and I loved the way the crew organically rallied around Apaay and gave her space as needed. Her struggle was so raw and felt so real and the other characters’ reactions felt so natural.
Trans representation. Once again, this setting doesn’t have a formal mechanism for labels or gendering (as compared to the modern world) but, Numiak explains Tulimaq’s feelings regarding his gender so eloquently. I loved seeing the acceptance and understanding without the need for semantics or explanation.
Moral greyness. This book is filled with morally grey characters and characters whose motivations are not completely known. The Face Stealer, in particular, is a character that you’re not sure if you can trust. He was working with Yuki in book one, but he’s also proven himself to be loyal to his friends. I loved the fact that the characters are not cut and dry, good or bad. They all have feelings, they all made mistakes.
Slow burn enemies to lovers. Seriously, when are Numiak and Apaay going to get their act together. I ship them and I will not have anyone tell me otherwise. I also ship Ila and Tulimaq (but not as much after reading that ending!).
Series Value
I’m obsessed with this series. The fact that book 3 doesn’t even have a name yet is positively devastating. I can’t wait to keep reading and I want everyone I know to read this series so we can scream about how much we love it together.
Final Thoughts
This book was very different from Below in all the best ways. The cast of characters expanded and my favorites from Below had so much growth. I also loved that the world expanded into so much more than just one myth and one labyrinth. I can’t wait to keep reading this series and I can’t wait to read all of Alexandria Warwick’s other future works.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐️️
Recommendations for Further Reading
Untitled (North #3) by Alexandria Warwick – I have absolutely no doubt, book 3 will be phenomenal. Show it some love by adding it to your GoodReads TBR today!
The Kinder Poison by Natalie Mae – if you enjoyed the enemies to lovers and slow burn vibes, check out this 2020 release.
The Demon Race by Alexandria Warwick – if you enjoyed the writing style here, try Alexandria’s other book.
I applied to be an ARC reader for this title the second I found out Alexandria Warwick was looking! I absolutely loved Below and couldn’t wait to read this sequel. I just finished reading this book last night and it was incredible.
Some Things I Liked
Plot twists. As I’ve said in many other reviews, it’s very hard to surprise me. I’ve read hundreds of books and have seen many a plot twist so shock factor goes a long way with me. This book had all the drama and twists that even I didn’t see coming. They felt so organic and perfect for the story that I’m disappointed I didn’t see them coming myself. I’m also thrilled that the story kept me guessing so much.
Mental health representation. Below has some dark themes as North continued that trend. Apaay struggles with her mental health during a large portion of this book. I loved the way the other characters naturally came together to help Apaay through this time. This setting doesn’t have defined concepts of mental health and I loved the way the crew organically rallied around Apaay and gave her space as needed. Her struggle was so raw and felt so real and the other characters’ reactions felt so natural.
Trans representation. Once again, this setting doesn’t have a formal mechanism for labels or gendering (as compared to the modern world) but, Numiak explains Tulimaq’s feelings regarding his gender so eloquently. I loved seeing the acceptance and understanding without the need for semantics or explanation.
Moral greyness. This book is filled with morally grey characters and characters whose motivations are not completely known. The Face Stealer, in particular, is a character that you’re not sure if you can trust. He was working with Yuki in book one, but he’s also proven himself to be loyal to his friends. I loved the fact that the characters are not cut and dry, good or bad. They all have feelings, they all made mistakes.
Slow burn enemies to lovers. Seriously, when are Numiak and Apaay going to get their act together. I ship them and I will not have anyone tell me otherwise. I also ship Ila and Tulimaq (but not as much after reading that ending!).
Series Value
I’m obsessed with this series. The fact that book 3 doesn’t even have a name yet is positively devastating. I can’t wait to keep reading and I want everyone I know to read this series so we can scream about how much we love it together.
Final Thoughts
This book was very different from Below in all the best ways. The cast of characters expanded and my favorites from Below had so much growth. I also loved that the world expanded into so much more than just one myth and one labyrinth. I can’t wait to keep reading this series and I can’t wait to read all of Alexandria Warwick’s other future works.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐️️
Recommendations for Further Reading
Untitled (North #3) by Alexandria Warwick – I have absolutely no doubt, book 3 will be phenomenal. Show it some love by adding it to your GoodReads TBR today!
The Kinder Poison by Natalie Mae – if you enjoyed the enemies to lovers and slow burn vibes, check out this 2020 release.
The Demon Race by Alexandria Warwick – if you enjoyed the writing style here, try Alexandria’s other book.
April 8, 2020
ARC provided by the author. All opinions are my own.
"'It's quite clever, actually. Yuki does have a flair for the dramatic, in case you hadn't noticed.'
Oh, she'd noticed."
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of the first book in this series, Below, last year and LOVED it, so when I was offered the chance to get the sequel, I jumped on it the first chance I got! Not only is the cover stunning, but THIS BOOK WAS EVEN BETTER THAN THE FIRST! I'm a bit sad that I finished the entire thing in two sittings the day after I received it, cuz now I gotta wait for the next book :'(
One of the most appealing parts of Below were the characters, and that was no less true in Night. I would say that this book is more character-driven than the first installment, which resulted in less action when compared to the events in the Labyrinth, but I'm a complete sucker for character development and domestic moments so I was LIVING FOR THIS. The worldbuilding was expanded so much and it was all really interesting. I loved learning more about the different Unua tribes and the history of the North! We learned so much about myths that played super important roles, and I really enjoyed reading about the First Man, the Raven and the Sea Mother!
"Apaay wondered what he saw and if it was the same thing she did: someone who wasn't ready to give up yet, but who didn't know how to step away from the edge."
Back to the amazing characters! I loved Apaay's bravery and resilience in the first book and she's an awesome narrator. In this sequel, she's definitely struggling following her time spent in Yuki's labyrinth and she constantly battles depression throughout the book, though it's never named as such. I thought it was depicted really well, and I'm happy to see more depression representation, especially after just reading The Crow Rider, in which depression also affects the main character! It's inspiring to see Apaay work against her demons (hah, pun intended) and by the end of the book, she's stronger than ever. I just love her a lot.
SPEAKING OF DEMONS, the Face Stealer was on a whole 'nother level in this book. He almost seemed like a different person altogether, and it was amaaaaazing. We got to see a completely different side of him and learn so much about his life and his motivations. His relationship with Apaay is SO GREAT and I'm obsessed with them. It's so frickin' entertaining to see them interact and be vulnerable and ugh it's so good. They reached a really great place by the end of the book and I can't waaaaait to see where it goes from here.
Side characters became even more abundant, and they were awesome! Ila was back with her own POV chapters, too! I loved her in the first book, and though her friendship with Apaay was different, it was nice to see her grow into herself and become a stronger person. I'm really excited about the revelations we've learned about her! Kaan and Ro were fantastic additions as well, and I'm interested in Talimaq's role going forward.
Overall, I'm super happy with this book. I really enjoy the plot, the great worldbuilding and all the twist and turns of the characters. This has definitely become one of my favorite ongoing series, and I am seriously looking forward to the next book, though I'll be waiting awhile. I think it's an supremely-underrated series, but I'll be for sure recommending it to all my book friends! Make sure to snag your copy when it releases on October 8th!
"'It's quite clever, actually. Yuki does have a flair for the dramatic, in case you hadn't noticed.'
Oh, she'd noticed."
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of the first book in this series, Below, last year and LOVED it, so when I was offered the chance to get the sequel, I jumped on it the first chance I got! Not only is the cover stunning, but THIS BOOK WAS EVEN BETTER THAN THE FIRST! I'm a bit sad that I finished the entire thing in two sittings the day after I received it, cuz now I gotta wait for the next book :'(
One of the most appealing parts of Below were the characters, and that was no less true in Night. I would say that this book is more character-driven than the first installment, which resulted in less action when compared to the events in the Labyrinth, but I'm a complete sucker for character development and domestic moments so I was LIVING FOR THIS. The worldbuilding was expanded so much and it was all really interesting. I loved learning more about the different Unua tribes and the history of the North! We learned so much about myths that played super important roles, and I really enjoyed reading about the First Man, the Raven and the Sea Mother!
"Apaay wondered what he saw and if it was the same thing she did: someone who wasn't ready to give up yet, but who didn't know how to step away from the edge."
Back to the amazing characters! I loved Apaay's bravery and resilience in the first book and she's an awesome narrator. In this sequel, she's definitely struggling following her time spent in Yuki's labyrinth and she constantly battles depression throughout the book, though it's never named as such. I thought it was depicted really well, and I'm happy to see more depression representation, especially after just reading The Crow Rider, in which depression also affects the main character! It's inspiring to see Apaay work against her demons (hah, pun intended) and by the end of the book, she's stronger than ever. I just love her a lot.
SPEAKING OF DEMONS, the Face Stealer was on a whole 'nother level in this book. He almost seemed like a different person altogether, and it was amaaaaazing. We got to see a completely different side of him and learn so much about his life and his motivations. His relationship with Apaay is SO GREAT and I'm obsessed with them. It's so frickin' entertaining to see them interact and be vulnerable and ugh it's so good. They reached a really great place by the end of the book and I can't waaaaait to see where it goes from here.
Side characters became even more abundant, and they were awesome! Ila was back with her own POV chapters, too! I loved her in the first book, and though her friendship with Apaay was different, it was nice to see her grow into herself and become a stronger person. I'm really excited about the revelations we've learned about her! Kaan and Ro were fantastic additions as well, and I'm interested in Talimaq's role going forward.
Overall, I'm super happy with this book. I really enjoy the plot, the great worldbuilding and all the twist and turns of the characters. This has definitely become one of my favorite ongoing series, and I am seriously looking forward to the next book, though I'll be waiting awhile. I think it's an supremely-underrated series, but I'll be for sure recommending it to all my book friends! Make sure to snag your copy when it releases on October 8th!
January 27, 2023
Rating: 3.5
Ohhh Apaay makes me so angry, embarrassed and feel bad - ugh she’s so stubborn and blind.
Again, I love the character development of Ila, and the Face Stealer. Love the writing, the world building, the twists and the plot which had surprising and unexpected moments as well as some givens.
Love the tension too but Apaay, I believe has had a disconnect in her character development in the later part of the book from the start of the book — where she doesn’t apologize or feel even a shred of remorse for a bigger event caused by her than the one which brought about her ‘darkness’ at the end of book 1. This distinct disjointedness in her character made me give it a lesser rating and spoiled it a bit for me. It seems the author got a bit confused in dealing with her trauma and how she should appear at the healing/recovery stage of it and now her outcome character isn’t at all in line with her ‘strength’ of character. Her darkness stemmed from guilt but a similar event doesn’t cause a reaction — a distinct character unevenness. Besides, she’s all cut up about her family at end book 1 but book 2 she doesn’t even think of them. This disconnect from first and second half and the author’s possible confusion to a direction I did not like. (Desperately hoping she’s not a Nesta from ACOTAR who I detested intensely as she never acknowledged her mistakes, apologized nor made amends for but just took and took and yet, was still made a heroine!) Author’s reasoning for Apaay’s development isn’t as solid as other parts of the book which is a let down.
But to give credit due, Apaay isn’t a ‘strong protagonist’ as a usual YA protagonist by this point of the series (who is pro warrior and has all ducks lined up) - she’s messy, reckless, pig headed and not likable especially to those that care about her - and while that is unexpectedly different and good in a way for character development’s tension but it’s not at all satisfying as a reader who is getting virtual stress by Apaay’s actions, reactions and motives and thinks she’s not worth the hype!
Lastly, the final chapters regarding Apaay, though action packed, didn’t really have a need to happen in the natural flow of the book till that point — they feel forced and made to happen by the author to bring things to a head which again isn’t as satisfying…
Having said that, I’m devouring the series and re-reading passages which are utterly charming between the protagonists.
Pulled an all nighter on this one. Hoping for a better Apaay in book 3 which I can’t wait to start…
Ohhh Apaay makes me so angry, embarrassed and feel bad - ugh she’s so stubborn and blind.
Again, I love the character development of Ila, and the Face Stealer. Love the writing, the world building, the twists and the plot which had surprising and unexpected moments as well as some givens.
Love the tension too but Apaay, I believe has had a disconnect in her character development in the later part of the book from the start of the book — where she doesn’t apologize or feel even a shred of remorse for a bigger event caused by her than the one which brought about her ‘darkness’ at the end of book 1. This distinct disjointedness in her character made me give it a lesser rating and spoiled it a bit for me. It seems the author got a bit confused in dealing with her trauma and how she should appear at the healing/recovery stage of it and now her outcome character isn’t at all in line with her ‘strength’ of character. Her darkness stemmed from guilt but a similar event doesn’t cause a reaction — a distinct character unevenness. Besides, she’s all cut up about her family at end book 1 but book 2 she doesn’t even think of them. This disconnect from first and second half and the author’s possible confusion to a direction I did not like. (Desperately hoping she’s not a Nesta from ACOTAR who I detested intensely as she never acknowledged her mistakes, apologized nor made amends for but just took and took and yet, was still made a heroine!) Author’s reasoning for Apaay’s development isn’t as solid as other parts of the book which is a let down.
But to give credit due, Apaay isn’t a ‘strong protagonist’ as a usual YA protagonist by this point of the series (who is pro warrior and has all ducks lined up) - she’s messy, reckless, pig headed and not likable especially to those that care about her - and while that is unexpectedly different and good in a way for character development’s tension but it’s not at all satisfying as a reader who is getting virtual stress by Apaay’s actions, reactions and motives and thinks she’s not worth the hype!
Lastly, the final chapters regarding Apaay, though action packed, didn’t really have a need to happen in the natural flow of the book till that point — they feel forced and made to happen by the author to bring things to a head which again isn’t as satisfying…
Having said that, I’m devouring the series and re-reading passages which are utterly charming between the protagonists.
Pulled an all nighter on this one. Hoping for a better Apaay in book 3 which I can’t wait to start…
October 13, 2020
WARNING: Slight spoilers for BELOW
NIGHT is the heart-pounding sequel to BELOW and the second book in the North series. When I first read BELOW I knew I was going to be in love with this story almost immediately. The characters drew me in, the story was even more compelling, and I read it all in one sitting! Now, after being able to read the sequel early in exchange for an honest review, I cannot say this enough......
READ THIS SERIES!!
Apaay was able to escape the labyrinth and now has to battle not only external demons, but internal as well. NIGHT takes her through a perilous, ominous tale that promises darkness and romance and adventure.
From the prologue to the very last line, I was obsessed with this story and couldn’t get enough of Apaay’s journey. My praise is basically extending from BELOW into NIGHT!! I can’t wait for the next installment in this series and can hopefully snag an ARC of book three because I can’t get enough.
If you love intricate, lyrically-beautiful prose, action-infused fantasy adventures, and seldom published mythologies/cultures, this book and series is for YOU!!!! Read it now so we can all gush <3
NIGHT is the heart-pounding sequel to BELOW and the second book in the North series. When I first read BELOW I knew I was going to be in love with this story almost immediately. The characters drew me in, the story was even more compelling, and I read it all in one sitting! Now, after being able to read the sequel early in exchange for an honest review, I cannot say this enough......
READ THIS SERIES!!
Apaay was able to escape the labyrinth and now has to battle not only external demons, but internal as well. NIGHT takes her through a perilous, ominous tale that promises darkness and romance and adventure.
From the prologue to the very last line, I was obsessed with this story and couldn’t get enough of Apaay’s journey. My praise is basically extending from BELOW into NIGHT!! I can’t wait for the next installment in this series and can hopefully snag an ARC of book three because I can’t get enough.
If you love intricate, lyrically-beautiful prose, action-infused fantasy adventures, and seldom published mythologies/cultures, this book and series is for YOU!!!! Read it now so we can all gush <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2022
"Performing one good deed did not make one a hero, just as one poor choice did not make one a villain. But what about a multitude of horrible things? What about a lifetime?"
♠ Oh, a me sta serie continua a farmi male e a piacermi. Devo leggerla quando sono proprio in un momento adatto, quando i pianeti sono allineati e Plutone è nella casa della vergine però daje. E questo è anche meglio del primo perchè è più ricco di introspezione, sia di Apaay che di Ila, che si fanno amare entrambe, che si fanno capire entrambe, che si fanno compatire entrambe, che fanno scelte comprensibili. Il trauma di Apaay riempie i suoi pov ed è un misto di senso di colpa e disgusto verso se stessa che la fa sentire piccola e la spinge ad allontanarsi dalla sua famiglia che ha finalmente ritrovato e dall'amata sorella alla quale ha riportato il volto. I sacrifici e le scelte che ha fatto la isolano da tutto e tutti, si sente incompresa e non sa a chi rivolgersi, non sa con chi parlare e non sa nemmeno come spiegare ciò che prova e come superare il trauma. Ila fa il viaggio emotivo opposto, cresciuta prigioniera, debole e muta si ritrova per la prima volta libera da tutto e tutti, al sicuro e a dover crescere. Decide di diventare forte e lottare, decide di voler imparare a combattere e voler diventare più forte. Queste scelte portano anche loro due ad allontanarsi, hanno vissuto una prigionia insieme ma dove Apaay ha dovuto fare delle scelte dolorose, Ila è stata testimone lontana di quegli orrori e ora che sono fuori e potrebbero parlare, esorcizzare il tutto, non riescono a ritrovarsi, ad aiutarsi e a sostenersi.
Il viaggio di Ila è molto più organico ed interessante, non mi è piaciuta la scelta di Apaay, che umanamente riesco a capire ma non a condividere, ed è arrivata vicinissima al farsi odiare e ha lisciato la linea della stupidità. Fastidioso il suo giustificare le scelte sbagliate e l'autosabotaggio con il trauma, sopratutto se mettono in pericolo persone innocenti.
♠ Numiak sarebbe stato un villan con in controfiocchi. È scritto veramente bene, l'autrice gli ha dato quel dualismo che lo rende bello, quel suo oscillare tra la cattiveria, l'orgoglio e l'odio, all'altruismo, alla carità e anche - forse- a qualcosa di simile all'affetto per Apaay prima e per gli altri umani rifugiati nel Bosco dopo. Però, sopratutto, è coerente con ciò che abbiamo visto nel primo libro, non ha subito il cambio di personalità senza senso che quasi mi aspettavo, lui non rimpiange quello che ha fatto nel labirinto di Yuki, non lo giustifica, ha semplicemente fatto il meglio che poteva in quella determinata situazione. Lui è davvero un personaggio affascinante, è quel personaggio che tanti autori vorrebbero scrivere/aver scritto. Talumaq lo vedo ancora con qualche possibilità di redenzione, anche lui è un personaggio tendenzialmente grigio e quel finale non mi spinge a saltare alle conclusioni. Il giudizio è sospeso, per ora.
Ammetto però che la pace tra i gufi e Numiak l'ho trovata troppo facile, non so, lui le ha prese e Umiq pure però due pagine mi sono sembrate un po' poche per risolvere una faida che durava da centinaia d'anni.
♠ Oh, a me sta serie continua a farmi male e a piacermi. Devo leggerla quando sono proprio in un momento adatto, quando i pianeti sono allineati e Plutone è nella casa della vergine però daje. E questo è anche meglio del primo perchè è più ricco di introspezione, sia di Apaay che di Ila, che si fanno amare entrambe, che si fanno capire entrambe, che si fanno compatire entrambe, che fanno scelte comprensibili. Il trauma di Apaay riempie i suoi pov ed è un misto di senso di colpa e disgusto verso se stessa che la fa sentire piccola e la spinge ad allontanarsi dalla sua famiglia che ha finalmente ritrovato e dall'amata sorella alla quale ha riportato il volto. I sacrifici e le scelte che ha fatto la isolano da tutto e tutti, si sente incompresa e non sa a chi rivolgersi, non sa con chi parlare e non sa nemmeno come spiegare ciò che prova e come superare il trauma. Ila fa il viaggio emotivo opposto, cresciuta prigioniera, debole e muta si ritrova per la prima volta libera da tutto e tutti, al sicuro e a dover crescere. Decide di diventare forte e lottare, decide di voler imparare a combattere e voler diventare più forte. Queste scelte portano anche loro due ad allontanarsi, hanno vissuto una prigionia insieme ma dove Apaay ha dovuto fare delle scelte dolorose, Ila è stata testimone lontana di quegli orrori e ora che sono fuori e potrebbero parlare, esorcizzare il tutto, non riescono a ritrovarsi, ad aiutarsi e a sostenersi.
Il viaggio di Ila è molto più organico ed interessante, non mi è piaciuta la scelta di Apaay, che umanamente riesco a capire ma non a condividere, ed è arrivata vicinissima al farsi odiare e ha lisciato la linea della stupidità. Fastidioso il suo giustificare le scelte sbagliate e l'autosabotaggio con il trauma, sopratutto se mettono in pericolo persone innocenti.
♠ Numiak sarebbe stato un villan con in controfiocchi. È scritto veramente bene, l'autrice gli ha dato quel dualismo che lo rende bello, quel suo oscillare tra la cattiveria, l'orgoglio e l'odio, all'altruismo, alla carità e anche - forse- a qualcosa di simile all'affetto per Apaay prima e per gli altri umani rifugiati nel Bosco dopo. Però, sopratutto, è coerente con ciò che abbiamo visto nel primo libro, non ha subito il cambio di personalità senza senso che quasi mi aspettavo, lui non rimpiange quello che ha fatto nel labirinto di Yuki, non lo giustifica, ha semplicemente fatto il meglio che poteva in quella determinata situazione. Lui è davvero un personaggio affascinante, è quel personaggio che tanti autori vorrebbero scrivere/aver scritto. Talumaq lo vedo ancora con qualche possibilità di redenzione, anche lui è un personaggio tendenzialmente grigio e quel finale non mi spinge a saltare alle conclusioni. Il giudizio è sospeso, per ora.
Ammetto però che la pace tra i gufi e Numiak l'ho trovata troppo facile, non so, lui le ha prese e Umiq pure però due pagine mi sono sembrate un po' poche per risolvere una faida che durava da centinaia d'anni.
December 14, 2020
Star Rating: 4.5 stars
Note: This is the 2nd book in the North series so this will not be an in-depth review.
After hearing about Below, book 1 in the North series, acquiring a copy from my local public library, and thoroughly enjoying it, I was excited when I heard that book 2, Night, was coming out, and I am happy to say that it lived up to expectations. These series tells the story of Apaay, an young Analak girl, who desires only to feed her family and survive in a world that is similar in environment to our Arctic Circle. However, one day, her village is attacked by a figure out of legend, the Face Stealer, and the face that he chooses to steal is Apaay’s sister, Eska. Determined to save her sister, Apaay embarks on a journey into the Arctic wilderness where her very humanity is put to the test. In this installment, Apaay is recovering from the events of the 1st book as well as trying to figure out why her and her people are getting pulled into a conflict that should not even concern them.
As with most of the books that I read, I greatly enjoyed the themes that this book conveyed. This book deals with trauma in its many forms, whether they are societal, generational, or personal and how these traumas change us as humans, whether for the good or the bad. Although I can’t go into details because I don’t want to spoil the 1st installment of the series, I am very excited with how this book is looking at war and its effects on the world, societies, and individuals that are getting caught up in it.
I also really enjoy how this story is being told, although it isn’t perfect. Apaay grew up hearing stories of the Face Stealer, the Sea Mother, and the Unua nations, but it wasn’t until her sister’s face was stolen that she realized that what she had always believed to be the mythos of her culture was, shockingly, real, and that it may have more of an effect on the her and her people’s future than she ever believed. However, as I said, it isn’t perfect as sometimes the narrative becomes confusing and convoluted as Warwick tries to weave the myriad threads of her narrative together. Normally, this scenario would bother me, but Warwick is a fairly new author, and for one with her experience, this narrative style is very ambitious and even though she makes some mistakes, the fact that she is willing to take on a style that even a lot of more experienced authors wouldn’t be able to pull off is admirable. If she is willing to take risks like this with only a few novels under her belt, I can’t wait to see where she goes from here. 4.5 stars and an author I will be keeping an eye on!!
PS: If you enjoy authors like Claire Legrand, Katherine Arden, and S.A. Charkaborty, then I think you may like Warwick as well. Her books deserve more attention as they are well crafted for a new voice in YA fantasy.
Note: This is the 2nd book in the North series so this will not be an in-depth review.
After hearing about Below, book 1 in the North series, acquiring a copy from my local public library, and thoroughly enjoying it, I was excited when I heard that book 2, Night, was coming out, and I am happy to say that it lived up to expectations. These series tells the story of Apaay, an young Analak girl, who desires only to feed her family and survive in a world that is similar in environment to our Arctic Circle. However, one day, her village is attacked by a figure out of legend, the Face Stealer, and the face that he chooses to steal is Apaay’s sister, Eska. Determined to save her sister, Apaay embarks on a journey into the Arctic wilderness where her very humanity is put to the test. In this installment, Apaay is recovering from the events of the 1st book as well as trying to figure out why her and her people are getting pulled into a conflict that should not even concern them.
As with most of the books that I read, I greatly enjoyed the themes that this book conveyed. This book deals with trauma in its many forms, whether they are societal, generational, or personal and how these traumas change us as humans, whether for the good or the bad. Although I can’t go into details because I don’t want to spoil the 1st installment of the series, I am very excited with how this book is looking at war and its effects on the world, societies, and individuals that are getting caught up in it.
I also really enjoy how this story is being told, although it isn’t perfect. Apaay grew up hearing stories of the Face Stealer, the Sea Mother, and the Unua nations, but it wasn’t until her sister’s face was stolen that she realized that what she had always believed to be the mythos of her culture was, shockingly, real, and that it may have more of an effect on the her and her people’s future than she ever believed. However, as I said, it isn’t perfect as sometimes the narrative becomes confusing and convoluted as Warwick tries to weave the myriad threads of her narrative together. Normally, this scenario would bother me, but Warwick is a fairly new author, and for one with her experience, this narrative style is very ambitious and even though she makes some mistakes, the fact that she is willing to take on a style that even a lot of more experienced authors wouldn’t be able to pull off is admirable. If she is willing to take risks like this with only a few novels under her belt, I can’t wait to see where she goes from here. 4.5 stars and an author I will be keeping an eye on!!
PS: If you enjoy authors like Claire Legrand, Katherine Arden, and S.A. Charkaborty, then I think you may like Warwick as well. Her books deserve more attention as they are well crafted for a new voice in YA fantasy.
March 2, 2021
Twists, Turns, and Traitors!
Reviewed in the United States on January 31, 2021
This book series has been on my reading list for a while because I was waiting for a cold wintery day. It was worth the wait. Both the first book, “Below”, and the second book “Night”, start off a little slow, but the imagery and the creativity of this world that Alexandria Warwick has created is harshly beautiful. The plotline reminded me a lot of Sarah J. Maas’ “Court of Mist and Fury” (the second book) with some Avatar the Last Airbender and Katherine Arden’s “Bear and the Nightingale” series.
This book picks up immediately after the first book with Apaay dealing with the ramifications of this larger cruel world. She has severe PTSD, and while she finally is reunited with her family and is moderately safe now, she begins pushing people away because she doesn’t know how to begin again. She still trusts the wrong people and has some significant communication issues, but so does everyone else in this book.
Fortunately, we also get a new POV with Ila. Who decides she is going to become a warrior to fight to live in this world and make it better. She also has the possible romantic love interest in Tulimaq – though I don’t know what will happen after the big reveal at the end.
I really like Apaay’s interactions with the Face Stealer/Numiak. He reminds me of Rhys from “A Court of Mist and Fury”. He has created a haven for the refugees, he has saved as many as he has killed, but he still is a mystery. How did he become the Face Stealer? Why does the Face Stealer steal faces? Does it give him some type of power? And I am still a little confused regarding what kind of magic each shapeshifter kingdom has.
I am excited for a more romantic relationship between Numiak and Apaay – there are just hints of it still in this book, mostly because Apaay still hates him – but by the second half of this book Apaay is becoming as clever and tricky as the Face Stealer. It would not surprise me to find out she is part Unua or have latent powers of dark god, Taggak.
This book expands the world of the North and develops the beginnings of a war between the Unua nations. Apaay and Numiak will have to use their skills and strategy to face a growing axis of powers.
The ending was INSANE! Huge surprises regarding some past history of certain characters, some big twists, and a cliffhanger.
I am really looking forward to the third book and I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys slow-burn love-hate relationship with a really complex world.
Reviewed in the United States on January 31, 2021
This book series has been on my reading list for a while because I was waiting for a cold wintery day. It was worth the wait. Both the first book, “Below”, and the second book “Night”, start off a little slow, but the imagery and the creativity of this world that Alexandria Warwick has created is harshly beautiful. The plotline reminded me a lot of Sarah J. Maas’ “Court of Mist and Fury” (the second book) with some Avatar the Last Airbender and Katherine Arden’s “Bear and the Nightingale” series.
This book picks up immediately after the first book with Apaay dealing with the ramifications of this larger cruel world. She has severe PTSD, and while she finally is reunited with her family and is moderately safe now, she begins pushing people away because she doesn’t know how to begin again. She still trusts the wrong people and has some significant communication issues, but so does everyone else in this book.
Fortunately, we also get a new POV with Ila. Who decides she is going to become a warrior to fight to live in this world and make it better. She also has the possible romantic love interest in Tulimaq – though I don’t know what will happen after the big reveal at the end.
I really like Apaay’s interactions with the Face Stealer/Numiak. He reminds me of Rhys from “A Court of Mist and Fury”. He has created a haven for the refugees, he has saved as many as he has killed, but he still is a mystery. How did he become the Face Stealer? Why does the Face Stealer steal faces? Does it give him some type of power? And I am still a little confused regarding what kind of magic each shapeshifter kingdom has.
I am excited for a more romantic relationship between Numiak and Apaay – there are just hints of it still in this book, mostly because Apaay still hates him – but by the second half of this book Apaay is becoming as clever and tricky as the Face Stealer. It would not surprise me to find out she is part Unua or have latent powers of dark god, Taggak.
This book expands the world of the North and develops the beginnings of a war between the Unua nations. Apaay and Numiak will have to use their skills and strategy to face a growing axis of powers.
The ending was INSANE! Huge surprises regarding some past history of certain characters, some big twists, and a cliffhanger.
I am really looking forward to the third book and I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys slow-burn love-hate relationship with a really complex world.
October 26, 2020
4.5 STARS
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
I absolutely was blown away by Night by Alexandria Warwick.
This is the second book in her North series (see review of book one here), which is a dark fantasy series based on Inuit Mythology. I ADORED everything about this second book. It was even better than the first, and the storyline is developing in such a great way.
The characters growth is phenomenal in this book, and I love the way that Warwick has taken the story. It was not at all what I was expecting, but I really enjoyed how Apaay and Numiaks' relationship has grown into a sort of friendship. I would never have guessed that it would go in that direction. I also really loved the development of the side characters, and there were even a few new characters that we were able to meet in this book that I really liked. I was also very impressed with the representation in this book, which is sometimes rare in fantasy.
The plot, like the first book, is extremely unique. I have never read anything similar, and I have been very impressed with her prose. The world-building is also really great, and I can perfectly picture the snowy and treacherous North that she describes.
I don't want to give anything away and spoil the books for anyone, but I will say that Overall, these books are definitely worth the read. A very unique premise, and a really fascinating dark fantasy world. I highly recommend!
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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
I absolutely was blown away by Night by Alexandria Warwick.
This is the second book in her North series (see review of book one here), which is a dark fantasy series based on Inuit Mythology. I ADORED everything about this second book. It was even better than the first, and the storyline is developing in such a great way.
The characters growth is phenomenal in this book, and I love the way that Warwick has taken the story. It was not at all what I was expecting, but I really enjoyed how Apaay and Numiaks' relationship has grown into a sort of friendship. I would never have guessed that it would go in that direction. I also really loved the development of the side characters, and there were even a few new characters that we were able to meet in this book that I really liked. I was also very impressed with the representation in this book, which is sometimes rare in fantasy.
The plot, like the first book, is extremely unique. I have never read anything similar, and I have been very impressed with her prose. The world-building is also really great, and I can perfectly picture the snowy and treacherous North that she describes.
I don't want to give anything away and spoil the books for anyone, but I will say that Overall, these books are definitely worth the read. A very unique premise, and a really fascinating dark fantasy world. I highly recommend!
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March 4, 2024
Everything I love about mythological retellings, Romantasy, and Warwick's style are in this second installment of the North series. Everything spectacular in its own right (not just as a "book 2")...except for Apaay.
How the mighty have fallen! I truly felt Warwick had created a notable heroine in Below; sadly, in the spirit of a lot of depictions of women in this genre, I was saddened to see Apaay succumb to the sort of Neo-Egotism so prevalent (and infuriating) in Western culture. The idea of, "I have the right to eviscerate you for thoughts & actions I disapprove of, BUT I also reserve the right to think and do those very same things if I decide it works for my benefit, and you can't say boo about it; moreover, I expect everyone to pacify me bc I'm the only human being on the planet who ever experienced lost, hurt, or tragedy." Sad. It's really difficult to stick with a book when you despise the protagonist. Maybe authors of this genre should note that?
But hey, the ensemble of supporting cast save the series! I will read Book #3; just need a little break.
I think the genre is doing something interesting with this fusion of ancient settings & modern attitudes, to an extent. I submit that Feminine strength does not have to be asserted through ego, petulance, or insolence. We do not have to stoop to the lowest common denominator of human behavior in order to rank in place with men.
How the mighty have fallen! I truly felt Warwick had created a notable heroine in Below; sadly, in the spirit of a lot of depictions of women in this genre, I was saddened to see Apaay succumb to the sort of Neo-Egotism so prevalent (and infuriating) in Western culture. The idea of, "I have the right to eviscerate you for thoughts & actions I disapprove of, BUT I also reserve the right to think and do those very same things if I decide it works for my benefit, and you can't say boo about it; moreover, I expect everyone to pacify me bc I'm the only human being on the planet who ever experienced lost, hurt, or tragedy." Sad. It's really difficult to stick with a book when you despise the protagonist. Maybe authors of this genre should note that?
But hey, the ensemble of supporting cast save the series! I will read Book #3; just need a little break.
I think the genre is doing something interesting with this fusion of ancient settings & modern attitudes, to an extent. I submit that Feminine strength does not have to be asserted through ego, petulance, or insolence. We do not have to stoop to the lowest common denominator of human behavior in order to rank in place with men.
March 30, 2022
As a writer and avid reader, I want this feedback to be taken very seriously by both the author and any potential readers.
While the story might seem intriguing at face value, this quickly falls apart when you realize that the characters and plot are about as tightly wound as a runaway roll of toilet paper. The book is full of issues related to cultural appropriation to boot, not to mention the plot’s predictability and the sanctimonious tone throughout. The only lesson to be learned from this book is that the main character is a thinly veiled expression of the author’s own “broken soul”. My soul felt more and more broken as well the more time I wasted time with this “book”.
The author clearly has an inflated sense of self that hampers her ability to use dialogue in a way that conveys any real human meaning. Simply refer to the author’s Goodreads page for examples of dialogue that achieve absolutely nothing and merely expose the author’s flawed perception of her craft. Don’t quit your day job, Alexandria Warwick - I hear that Denny’s is short on servers if you need a lead.
While the story might seem intriguing at face value, this quickly falls apart when you realize that the characters and plot are about as tightly wound as a runaway roll of toilet paper. The book is full of issues related to cultural appropriation to boot, not to mention the plot’s predictability and the sanctimonious tone throughout. The only lesson to be learned from this book is that the main character is a thinly veiled expression of the author’s own “broken soul”. My soul felt more and more broken as well the more time I wasted time with this “book”.
The author clearly has an inflated sense of self that hampers her ability to use dialogue in a way that conveys any real human meaning. Simply refer to the author’s Goodreads page for examples of dialogue that achieve absolutely nothing and merely expose the author’s flawed perception of her craft. Don’t quit your day job, Alexandria Warwick - I hear that Denny’s is short on servers if you need a lead.
October 24, 2020
Full review on my blog, Storied Adventures!
Whew! This sequel was SO GOOD! One of the best sequels I've read in a long time! I am officially in the Face Stealer's fan club!! I LOVE him! Think of The Darkling mixed with Cardan. Yeah, I went there.
Apaay was a bit annoying with her attitude BUT she was going through PTSD. It was handled really well! Ila was super interesting with her story line. I felt so bad for her! But we learn a lot about her!
I also loved the clans!
Dislikes: The beginning half was really slow. But that's it!
I can't wait for the next one!!
Whew! This sequel was SO GOOD! One of the best sequels I've read in a long time! I am officially in the Face Stealer's fan club!! I LOVE him! Think of The Darkling mixed with Cardan. Yeah, I went there.
Apaay was a bit annoying with her attitude BUT she was going through PTSD. It was handled really well! Ila was super interesting with her story line. I felt so bad for her! But we learn a lot about her!
I also loved the clans!
Dislikes: The beginning half was really slow. But that's it!
I can't wait for the next one!!
October 15, 2020
This year Alexandria Warwick returns with Apaay’s quest to save her sister and escape the aftermath of her time in the perilous labyrinth. If you’re a fan of Avatar: The Last Airbender or the Grishaverse universe, you have to take a step into Warwick’s world in the North. The plot was so expansive and Apaay is truly a heroine that is evolving beautifully against the dark realities of her world. The writing continues to ebb with the magic of this world and leaves readers reeling for the next installment!
October 13, 2020
This sequel to Below is exactly what I hoped it would be. The detail in every page kept me hooked and I read this faster than any other book I’ve picked up this year. This series has become one of my favourites and I can’t stop telling people about it.
October 26, 2020
A full review to come soon!
October 15, 2020
Night
4/5 🦄
Night continues Apaay’s story, though she is very different from before. Thoroughly traumatized by her experiences, she becomes suicidal in her guilt and shame. But the Face Stealer Numiak will not allow her to roam free and unprotected—she is bound to him by a blood oath and he intends to collect. Meanwhile a favorite character, Ila, who was a fellow prisoner in Below, now takes a more prominent role with her own perspective told. Her story is one of self discovery in a way that both parallels and diverges from Apaay’s story. Both women must figure out who they are both outside and after the labyrinth.
Fave series features:
⭐️ a deaf main character (Ila)
⭐️ romance hints (Apaay + Numiak)
⭐️ diversity
⭐️ the treatment of emotional trauma
4/5 🦄
Night continues Apaay’s story, though she is very different from before. Thoroughly traumatized by her experiences, she becomes suicidal in her guilt and shame. But the Face Stealer Numiak will not allow her to roam free and unprotected—she is bound to him by a blood oath and he intends to collect. Meanwhile a favorite character, Ila, who was a fellow prisoner in Below, now takes a more prominent role with her own perspective told. Her story is one of self discovery in a way that both parallels and diverges from Apaay’s story. Both women must figure out who they are both outside and after the labyrinth.
Fave series features:
⭐️ a deaf main character (Ila)
⭐️ romance hints (Apaay + Numiak)
⭐️ diversity
⭐️ the treatment of emotional trauma
August 6, 2021
SPOILER HEAVY
I loved Below because it was a thrilling adrenaline rush of a book. Which was unlike anything I’ve ever read before but this was even better. So amazing that I wish this series had 10 books instead of 4 because I loved that we got to see the actual world in this one, Instead of spending almost the whole thing in Yuki’s magical ice prison. That and I loved learning more about the Seal, Wolf, owl and polar bear unua. Though I’m still having trouble taking the seal unua seriously as villains because I think seals are adorable. However the only thing Below did better than it was Aapay because I couldn’t stand her in this one. I get that she went through a lot and that I should probably be more understanding but her attitude really made me miss who she was before. Especially since she was so mean to Ila who unlike Numiak had done nothing to deserve it, tried to convince herself to hate Numiak when it was clear she didn’t (not enough to want him dead anyway) and kept blaming herself for what went down in Below instead of placing the blame on Yuki where it belonged. Which made me really sad that she hated herself so much for something that wasn’t her fault. Though despite that her relationship with Numiak was the best part of the book. So good that I would’ve liked it more if it was the only part of the book. Because they were so engaging together that all the other characters as likeable as they were just seemed to get in the way. So while I understand why people are against them becoming a couple since they couldn’t of gotten off to a worse start and it wouldn’t kill him to return all the faces he stole. They had so much growth and chemistry together that I couldn’t help but be surprised and a little disappointed that nothing came of it. To be honest at first I thought I would hate the idea of them being a couple but after reading this I’m shipping them like crazy because Alexandria Warwick is just that good. Though if they just stay as frenemies forever than that’ll be fine too just not what I’m used to. That and the romance we did get was Yuki and Masuk despite the fact that she left him to rot in a dungeon, without ever trying to help him out or giving him any special treatment. So if Yuki hadn’t freaked when Aapay stabbed him I wouldn’t of thought she cared about him at all. Though since neither of them are right in the head I’ll stop trying to find any logic in that. Also speaking of Yuki I thought it was pretty obvious she was the sea mother after hearing her folk tale (Where her severed fingers transformed into sea creatures after her dad cut them off). Since I remembered her raging about her daddy issues in Below. So I don’t understand why she wants him to love her so badly after he broke her like she broke Aapay and I’m not looking forward to meeting him. What he did to his own daughter was so messed up that if Yuki hadn’t reduced the Wolf unua to an endangered species and started two wars with Nannuq. Or treated Aapay so horribly I would’ve felt bad for her. Also I’m wondering when or if I’m going to meet Nannuq because they’ve been going on about him for two books now and he still hasn’t shown up. So it will be very annoying if he doesn’t show up in the next one which will hopefully be just as good or even better.
I loved Below because it was a thrilling adrenaline rush of a book. Which was unlike anything I’ve ever read before but this was even better. So amazing that I wish this series had 10 books instead of 4 because I loved that we got to see the actual world in this one, Instead of spending almost the whole thing in Yuki’s magical ice prison. That and I loved learning more about the Seal, Wolf, owl and polar bear unua. Though I’m still having trouble taking the seal unua seriously as villains because I think seals are adorable. However the only thing Below did better than it was Aapay because I couldn’t stand her in this one. I get that she went through a lot and that I should probably be more understanding but her attitude really made me miss who she was before. Especially since she was so mean to Ila who unlike Numiak had done nothing to deserve it, tried to convince herself to hate Numiak when it was clear she didn’t (not enough to want him dead anyway) and kept blaming herself for what went down in Below instead of placing the blame on Yuki where it belonged. Which made me really sad that she hated herself so much for something that wasn’t her fault. Though despite that her relationship with Numiak was the best part of the book. So good that I would’ve liked it more if it was the only part of the book. Because they were so engaging together that all the other characters as likeable as they were just seemed to get in the way. So while I understand why people are against them becoming a couple since they couldn’t of gotten off to a worse start and it wouldn’t kill him to return all the faces he stole. They had so much growth and chemistry together that I couldn’t help but be surprised and a little disappointed that nothing came of it. To be honest at first I thought I would hate the idea of them being a couple but after reading this I’m shipping them like crazy because Alexandria Warwick is just that good. Though if they just stay as frenemies forever than that’ll be fine too just not what I’m used to. That and the romance we did get was Yuki and Masuk despite the fact that she left him to rot in a dungeon, without ever trying to help him out or giving him any special treatment. So if Yuki hadn’t freaked when Aapay stabbed him I wouldn’t of thought she cared about him at all. Though since neither of them are right in the head I’ll stop trying to find any logic in that. Also speaking of Yuki I thought it was pretty obvious she was the sea mother after hearing her folk tale (Where her severed fingers transformed into sea creatures after her dad cut them off). Since I remembered her raging about her daddy issues in Below. So I don’t understand why she wants him to love her so badly after he broke her like she broke Aapay and I’m not looking forward to meeting him. What he did to his own daughter was so messed up that if Yuki hadn’t reduced the Wolf unua to an endangered species and started two wars with Nannuq. Or treated Aapay so horribly I would’ve felt bad for her. Also I’m wondering when or if I’m going to meet Nannuq because they’ve been going on about him for two books now and he still hasn’t shown up. So it will be very annoying if he doesn’t show up in the next one which will hopefully be just as good or even better.
April 27, 2020
I didn't think it was possible for Alexandria Warwick to top Below, the first book in this series. But she totally did. The world gets bigger in Night, and the characters grow so much more. The plot adds on new layers and new twists, setting up bigger problems and questions for the next two books to answer. The only thing I'm angry about is having to wait for the next books to come out. I NEED THEM NOW.
This book starts out slowly. Apaay has a lot of trauma to overcome, and she doesn't trust people easily, especially the Face Stealer. And although it moved a little too slowly for my tastes, I love how accurate Apaay's journey through her trauma is. I've obviously never been tortured by a girl and a demon, but Apaay's feelings seem justified. I think her journey can bring hope to a lot of people, and Warwick's dedication even says: "To those who look for light in dark places."
We see twice as many characters in this book, and go deeper into the characters we already know. Ila plays an even greater role, and I found her character growth to be absolutely empowering. The Face Stealer in all his mysterious glory also plays a huge role. I honestly can't get enough of him. We learn a lot more about his background and his personality in this book, and let me just say he's fascinating.
My favorite, favorite part of Warwick's books is her writing. WOW. Talk about one of the best writers I've ever seen. Even if the plot didn't grip me at first, her writing did. It's perfectly lyrical, and every word carries weight. She does some amazing things with rhythm and syntax that make my editor's heart giddy. She carefully crafts unique dialogue for each character, making them jump off the page. And she's laid the groundwork for an incredible series. Do yourself a favor and start this series!!! You won't regret it.
Writing Aesthetic/Style: 5
Plot/Movement: 4.7
Character Development: 5
Overall: 5
Thank you, Alexandria Warwick, for the ARC! This book will be released on October 8, 2020.
This book starts out slowly. Apaay has a lot of trauma to overcome, and she doesn't trust people easily, especially the Face Stealer. And although it moved a little too slowly for my tastes, I love how accurate Apaay's journey through her trauma is. I've obviously never been tortured by a girl and a demon, but Apaay's feelings seem justified. I think her journey can bring hope to a lot of people, and Warwick's dedication even says: "To those who look for light in dark places."
We see twice as many characters in this book, and go deeper into the characters we already know. Ila plays an even greater role, and I found her character growth to be absolutely empowering. The Face Stealer in all his mysterious glory also plays a huge role. I honestly can't get enough of him. We learn a lot more about his background and his personality in this book, and let me just say he's fascinating.
My favorite, favorite part of Warwick's books is her writing. WOW. Talk about one of the best writers I've ever seen. Even if the plot didn't grip me at first, her writing did. It's perfectly lyrical, and every word carries weight. She does some amazing things with rhythm and syntax that make my editor's heart giddy. She carefully crafts unique dialogue for each character, making them jump off the page. And she's laid the groundwork for an incredible series. Do yourself a favor and start this series!!! You won't regret it.
Writing Aesthetic/Style: 5
Plot/Movement: 4.7
Character Development: 5
Overall: 5
Thank you, Alexandria Warwick, for the ARC! This book will be released on October 8, 2020.
April 16, 2024
Below, the first book in this series, was my favorite read of the year so far and this book just continues that trend. The story just gets better!! In this book. I particularly loved seeing Ila’s character growth so much. I also thought it was really cool to see Apay’s changes as she comes to realize she can't go back to the person she used to be, and that her experience has forever changed her.
As she struggles with all the negative parts of this, the world keeps moving forward, and she realizes she must somehow come to terms if she wants to keep moving with it. Not to mention that everything seems to be exponentially hurdling towards a war she didn't want to be a part of but realizes she. And everyone she loves, are very much wrapped up in.
Love Numiak even more, and seeing more of his backstory and his brother's story was fantastic! Once again, the writing was very atmospheric and beautiful and I can't wait to read the final installment in this series: Hunt. This book once again had me crying. Staying up past my bedtime to read. And hungry for more. If it tells you anything, I like never finish a book and immediately start on the next one. And with this one, I did!
As she struggles with all the negative parts of this, the world keeps moving forward, and she realizes she must somehow come to terms if she wants to keep moving with it. Not to mention that everything seems to be exponentially hurdling towards a war she didn't want to be a part of but realizes she. And everyone she loves, are very much wrapped up in.
Love Numiak even more, and seeing more of his backstory and his brother's story was fantastic! Once again, the writing was very atmospheric and beautiful and I can't wait to read the final installment in this series: Hunt. This book once again had me crying. Staying up past my bedtime to read. And hungry for more. If it tells you anything, I like never finish a book and immediately start on the next one. And with this one, I did!
October 1, 2020
Update: 10/1/2020
Read my full review on my blog: https://meccaamirahjackson.com/2020/1...
4/12/2020
Wow, wow, wow! Thoroughly impressed by the second installment. So much pain, healing, strength...I can't wait for the next book.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review and will post a full review closer to the release date.
Read my full review on my blog: https://meccaamirahjackson.com/2020/1...
4/12/2020
Wow, wow, wow! Thoroughly impressed by the second installment. So much pain, healing, strength...I can't wait for the next book.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review and will post a full review closer to the release date.
August 20, 2021
Re-read: 3.5 stars
I suppose things make sense after knowing some stuff.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
First time read rating: 3 stars
Hmm. I find myself in a bit of a confusion with certain things. 🤔
*waiting for a year to pass*
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