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Faye and the Ether #2
Faye and the City in the Sea
Faye can never be free from the blood that stains her soul.
Haunted by the horrific traumas of battle, Faye struggles to move past the bloodshed she witnessed that fateful day. No amount of magic can erase from her mind the images of the lives lost.
She can’t breathe.
Can’t sleep.
Can’t focus on anything but the terror she’s drowning in.
Yet she isn’t the only one plagued by trepidation. As a co-council, anxiety is a part of Daron’s daily life. But never before was it like this. Crippled by fear, he hunts for a way to keep Faye and Alec safe as the threat of Typhon draws near.
Traveling to the mercity for the full moon revelry, Faye uncovers a sinister new threat that could endanger life for all merfolk. Can she and Daron work together to protect their new allies? Or will the losses suffered sink their enchanting world to the depths?
Ride the waves of adventure in this epic young adult tale set under the sea, masterfully written by author Nicole Bailey!
Haunted by the horrific traumas of battle, Faye struggles to move past the bloodshed she witnessed that fateful day. No amount of magic can erase from her mind the images of the lives lost.
She can’t breathe.
Can’t sleep.
Can’t focus on anything but the terror she’s drowning in.
Yet she isn’t the only one plagued by trepidation. As a co-council, anxiety is a part of Daron’s daily life. But never before was it like this. Crippled by fear, he hunts for a way to keep Faye and Alec safe as the threat of Typhon draws near.
Traveling to the mercity for the full moon revelry, Faye uncovers a sinister new threat that could endanger life for all merfolk. Can she and Daron work together to protect their new allies? Or will the losses suffered sink their enchanting world to the depths?
Ride the waves of adventure in this epic young adult tale set under the sea, masterfully written by author Nicole Bailey!
- GenresFantasyYoung Adult
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 29, 2020
2 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
January 1, 2021
This was my first book to read in 2021 and I totally loved it so much!
As I have already written in my review for the first book, I just love the way the story is told and how the characters interact with each other. You will learn more about Faye and Daron, and how they deal with the aftermath of war and crisis. While Daron is struggling with his personal feelings and his relationship to Alec, Faye is drowning in her sorrow and fear because of her responsibility and the war. After all, she is still just a young girl so this is totally understandable and I felt so sorry for her.
In comparison to the first book, this one felt slower and concentrated more on diving deeper into the characters. Even though we get strong comrades with the merfolk, it looks like the war is still far away from ending. I want to know what will come next and can't wait for the next book!
I received this ARC from the author for a honest review.
As I have already written in my review for the first book, I just love the way the story is told and how the characters interact with each other. You will learn more about Faye and Daron, and how they deal with the aftermath of war and crisis. While Daron is struggling with his personal feelings and his relationship to Alec, Faye is drowning in her sorrow and fear because of her responsibility and the war. After all, she is still just a young girl so this is totally understandable and I felt so sorry for her.
In comparison to the first book, this one felt slower and concentrated more on diving deeper into the characters. Even though we get strong comrades with the merfolk, it looks like the war is still far away from ending. I want to know what will come next and can't wait for the next book!
I received this ARC from the author for a honest review.
January 5, 2021
For my full review and thoughts on the story, characters and ending completely spoiler free please visit my blog here
Thank you once again to the author for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
STORY ★★★★☆ -- I am very happy to leave my review for Faye and the City in the Sea, which is the second in a magical, mythological young adult series. I highly recommend you read the first book first, you can find my review for that Here. The story picks up where the first book left off. Faye is in a bad place, after witnessing the battle in the last book she is not doing well. In this book as well as battling her inner demons and preparing for the impending war with Typhons forces Faye travels to the Mercity and helps to build alliances and practice tapping into her magic.
OVERALL ★★★★☆-- I loved it. It really expanded on the world from the first book, added a few new and interesting characters and had plenty of twists and turns along the way. The book is quite short and very easy to read. I wouldn't mind a bit of extra padding but I think I said that about the first book. Sometimes chapters feel a bit lacking and I feel like scenes could just have a bit "more" but overall I think it's a great book and well worth a read!
Thank you once again to the author for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
STORY ★★★★☆ -- I am very happy to leave my review for Faye and the City in the Sea, which is the second in a magical, mythological young adult series. I highly recommend you read the first book first, you can find my review for that Here. The story picks up where the first book left off. Faye is in a bad place, after witnessing the battle in the last book she is not doing well. In this book as well as battling her inner demons and preparing for the impending war with Typhons forces Faye travels to the Mercity and helps to build alliances and practice tapping into her magic.
OVERALL ★★★★☆-- I loved it. It really expanded on the world from the first book, added a few new and interesting characters and had plenty of twists and turns along the way. The book is quite short and very easy to read. I wouldn't mind a bit of extra padding but I think I said that about the first book. Sometimes chapters feel a bit lacking and I feel like scenes could just have a bit "more" but overall I think it's a great book and well worth a read!
December 25, 2020
I’m so excited to review Faye and the City in the Sea today! I read the first book, Faye and the Ether, several months ago and was captivated by the characters and world in this YA fantasy series by Nicole Bailey! I love the continued development and expansion of the setting in Faye and the City in the Sea, the character arcs, and the multi-layered story-line.
As Faye travels to the underwater mermaid realm, when she and her allies battle evil foes, and even when she is resting as their camp, the story is rich with imagery and so immersive!. Bailey is skilled in painting a vivid picture of this fantastical world and the plethora of supernatural characters. The author also blends classic mythology with a modern spin, which creates a unique and fascinating plot.
The love story between Daron and Alec is another one of the highlights of the story. They are so in love, and I love that we were able to see this relationship develop. They are both strong, honorable people, and they bring out the best in each other. Neither is perfect, but their love and respect are unconditional. I adore their connection, and their chemistry is romantic and filled with swoon-worthy moments!
In addition to Daron and Alec’s romance, there is a love triangle brewing with Faye and two other characters. Though love triangles are not usually my favorite trope, I’m loving this one! Both males are intriguing and mysterious, and I can’t wait to learn more about each, as well as their growing relationships with Faye, in future books.
Though Daron is blissfully in love, he, like Faye, is tormented in this book. Riddled with anxiety and worry, they live in fear of future possibilities and losses. Faye, in particular, struggles with her actions and how they affected other people. I like that the author examines this aspect of their characters, as it is often something that is glossed over in many YA fantasies. There are emotional aftereffects of participating in conflict and war, and Bailey doesn’t shy away from the barrage of conflicting, confusing, and heartbreaking feelings that both Daron and Faye possess.
Faye and the City in the Sea is the second book in the Faye and the Ether series, and it isn’t a standalone. So, I would suggest reading the first book in the series before you read this one. That being said, it is a great read, and I totally recommend it! Thanks so much to Nicole Bailey for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
As Faye travels to the underwater mermaid realm, when she and her allies battle evil foes, and even when she is resting as their camp, the story is rich with imagery and so immersive!. Bailey is skilled in painting a vivid picture of this fantastical world and the plethora of supernatural characters. The author also blends classic mythology with a modern spin, which creates a unique and fascinating plot.
The love story between Daron and Alec is another one of the highlights of the story. They are so in love, and I love that we were able to see this relationship develop. They are both strong, honorable people, and they bring out the best in each other. Neither is perfect, but their love and respect are unconditional. I adore their connection, and their chemistry is romantic and filled with swoon-worthy moments!
In addition to Daron and Alec’s romance, there is a love triangle brewing with Faye and two other characters. Though love triangles are not usually my favorite trope, I’m loving this one! Both males are intriguing and mysterious, and I can’t wait to learn more about each, as well as their growing relationships with Faye, in future books.
Though Daron is blissfully in love, he, like Faye, is tormented in this book. Riddled with anxiety and worry, they live in fear of future possibilities and losses. Faye, in particular, struggles with her actions and how they affected other people. I like that the author examines this aspect of their characters, as it is often something that is glossed over in many YA fantasies. There are emotional aftereffects of participating in conflict and war, and Bailey doesn’t shy away from the barrage of conflicting, confusing, and heartbreaking feelings that both Daron and Faye possess.
Faye and the City in the Sea is the second book in the Faye and the Ether series, and it isn’t a standalone. So, I would suggest reading the first book in the series before you read this one. That being said, it is a great read, and I totally recommend it! Thanks so much to Nicole Bailey for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
February 28, 2024
4 ⭐ CW: violence, blood, PTSD, death
Faye and the City in the Sea by Nicole Bailey is book two in the Faye and the Ether series. This was a pretty good book two, if a little slow. We focus a lot on Faye's PTSD and not a lot on action until the end.
Faye is dealing with a lot of PTSD after the events of the previous book, making it difficult for her to watch anyone train or go on missions. She's also started pushing people away and keeping to herself. Because of her fear, Faye is unable to train her magic to gain control.
Faye is invited to stay in the Mercity with the Prince. It was really neat to keep exploring more creatures in the Ether. It's there, she meets Lana, an attendant she befriends and becomes close to. We get a couple of POV chapters from Heracles where we see his doubt about going against his daughter. We get to see more of Daron and Alec's relationship and how Alec's family feels about it.
Definitely a more character driven book this time around, but I'm not mad at it. I am mad about a certain death of a certain person though 👀.
Faye and the City in the Sea by Nicole Bailey is book two in the Faye and the Ether series. This was a pretty good book two, if a little slow. We focus a lot on Faye's PTSD and not a lot on action until the end.
Faye is dealing with a lot of PTSD after the events of the previous book, making it difficult for her to watch anyone train or go on missions. She's also started pushing people away and keeping to herself. Because of her fear, Faye is unable to train her magic to gain control.
Faye is invited to stay in the Mercity with the Prince. It was really neat to keep exploring more creatures in the Ether. It's there, she meets Lana, an attendant she befriends and becomes close to. We get a couple of POV chapters from Heracles where we see his doubt about going against his daughter. We get to see more of Daron and Alec's relationship and how Alec's family feels about it.
Definitely a more character driven book this time around, but I'm not mad at it. I am mad about a certain death of a certain person though 👀.
December 10, 2020
This book was so exciting! We learned more about the fantasy world and I'm completely in love with it. I love all the different mythical races mixed in that have the same issues that we do, makes it super easy to connect with.
I grew to completely love the characters in this book. We got to learn more deeply about them, and even got to meet some new great characters!
There was tons of action in this book, I thought it was well played out and just loved that the main female character Faye didn't just magically become super good at combat somehow but actually didn't like to be involved with it.
Can't wait for the next book in this series, I thoroughly have enjoyed it so far! I received this ARC from the author for a honest review.
I grew to completely love the characters in this book. We got to learn more deeply about them, and even got to meet some new great characters!
There was tons of action in this book, I thought it was well played out and just loved that the main female character Faye didn't just magically become super good at combat somehow but actually didn't like to be involved with it.
Can't wait for the next book in this series, I thoroughly have enjoyed it so far! I received this ARC from the author for a honest review.
January 1, 2021
After the deadly battle, Faye struggles heavily with the repercussions of life and death.
I feel like Faye comes into her own in this novel. Many series don't take into account the heavy toll a battle like what she went through takes, but this one does. It shows the ugly side of winning that is often not talked about, and I liked that. I also loved the deepening relationship with Telanus.
I feel like Faye comes into her own in this novel. Many series don't take into account the heavy toll a battle like what she went through takes, but this one does. It shows the ugly side of winning that is often not talked about, and I liked that. I also loved the deepening relationship with Telanus.
December 29, 2020
So at first I didn't really know where to start my review as there's so much to talk about.
This book is a rollercoaster of emotions, but in a good way. This book deals with the aftermath of a girl who's been thrown into battle, a girl who isn't used to seeing death and destruction in front of her, and it breaks her. I loved how this book wasn't shy to show the results of this on someone's mental and physcial state (such as ptsd and panic attacks) and to take a peek in her head while we're at it. What I also appreciated was the trigger warning at the beginning of the book, which made me approach it with caution (in a good way).
I grew to absolutely adore all the characters in this book and I won't deny that I might've had to wipe away a few tears here and there. Some of them are just. Too. Cute. Together.
Still, my favorite thing in these books are the tents and how they're described. It makes you wonder what yours would look like.
I'd have preferred for the battle to last a little longer, considering the book builds up to it. But I loved the chapters that covered it!
Nicole has outdone herself (in my opinion) compared to the first book and I can't wait for what's to come.
This book is a rollercoaster of emotions, but in a good way. This book deals with the aftermath of a girl who's been thrown into battle, a girl who isn't used to seeing death and destruction in front of her, and it breaks her. I loved how this book wasn't shy to show the results of this on someone's mental and physcial state (such as ptsd and panic attacks) and to take a peek in her head while we're at it. What I also appreciated was the trigger warning at the beginning of the book, which made me approach it with caution (in a good way).
I grew to absolutely adore all the characters in this book and I won't deny that I might've had to wipe away a few tears here and there. Some of them are just. Too. Cute. Together.
Still, my favorite thing in these books are the tents and how they're described. It makes you wonder what yours would look like.
I'd have preferred for the battle to last a little longer, considering the book builds up to it. But I loved the chapters that covered it!
Nicole has outdone herself (in my opinion) compared to the first book and I can't wait for what's to come.
December 5, 2020
I was so excited to read this second installment of the Ether series and was not disappointed. I don’t want to give away any plot of the book, but I will say that the story set out in book one continues with Faye experiencing some PTSD symptoms based on her experiences in book one, and Daron trying to balance his new relationship with his career and figuring out how to care for and protect his mate who he works with in a very dangerous job! I loved reading about their relationship and I THINK there might be a romance for Faye in the works, but it’s gonna be a slow burn, people. A certain character from book one gets a lot more page time and he and Faye become quite close. (I’ll admit it, I’m shipping them HARD!) I love the way the men are written in this book, they are strong and powerful warriors while also being thoughtful, emotional, and caring. No toxic masculinity for these guys! The women are strong and powerful too. I love the fantasy elements - my favorite are the tents that on the inside are dimensional pockets that become the environment that will comfort you. Absolutely give these books a chance if you like YA fantasy!
August 28, 2024
I was lucky and received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Typically I like the first book in a series best, but this book had everything I loved from the first book and more!
I personally found it difficult to read through some of Faye's mental trauma. Luckily I found my reading grew easier with each page I turned. I loved that the pain and anguish was there though! Most fantasy books barely bother to have characters mourn for those who die. I appreciated the author showing what suddenly being tossed into blood shed might do to a character's mental state.
This book once again holds it all; classic creatures viewed in a new way, fantastic world structure, magic, love, friendships, and more! This should definitely be on every fantasy lover's to read list!
I personally found it difficult to read through some of Faye's mental trauma. Luckily I found my reading grew easier with each page I turned. I loved that the pain and anguish was there though! Most fantasy books barely bother to have characters mourn for those who die. I appreciated the author showing what suddenly being tossed into blood shed might do to a character's mental state.
This book once again holds it all; classic creatures viewed in a new way, fantastic world structure, magic, love, friendships, and more! This should definitely be on every fantasy lover's to read list!
December 6, 2020
Everyone has choices they have made they regret. It's part of being alive. Learning to forgive ourselves and learn from our mistakes is part of life's journey.
I was thrilled to be asked to review this sequel to Faye & the Ether. This sequel does not disappoint. It doesn't pick up exactly where we left Faye in the first book, but close enough that the two books read together very nicely. The pace of the book is excellent and the writing just as good.
Faye's mental journey in focused more on this book and the events from the first books that she went through have their toll on her. While she retreats into herself, her friends and found family try to help her cope. One in particular gets a lot more time and I sincerely hope that it turns into something more than friendship. Faye's perspective is really gripping and anyone who has gone through doubting themselves and regretting something will relate to her in this book.
Daron's perspective is more about navigating his career and relationship together. Throughout the book he struggles with the same as he did in the first book, how to protect everyone he loves from everything. I found Daron's perspective was relatable; he grows a lot in his interpersonal relationships and trusting himself in this instalment.
The new characters in this sequel are definitely a highlight of the book. The bring more depth to the novel and bring more history of Ether to the reader. The new characters provide more insight into how the world and races all connect and how long standing believes could have caused such a divide. Some The events of the novel were well written. I was surprised by some of them and predicted others. But there was enough twists to keep me engaged throughout. This series is about a war and obviously the characters went through loss. The reactions of the characters each had me crying.
Overall, I read through the book and the book is well paced for events. The themes and issues both the main characters are going through are relatable, even if they are in a fantasy world. I would recommend this series to anyone who loves mythology, fantasy or even adventure novels in the YA section. I can't wait for the next novel and hope that my ships and potential ships make it through this war between the two sides of Ether.
I would like to thank Nicole Bailey for sending me a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I was thrilled to be asked to review this sequel to Faye & the Ether. This sequel does not disappoint. It doesn't pick up exactly where we left Faye in the first book, but close enough that the two books read together very nicely. The pace of the book is excellent and the writing just as good.
Faye's mental journey in focused more on this book and the events from the first books that she went through have their toll on her. While she retreats into herself, her friends and found family try to help her cope. One in particular gets a lot more time and I sincerely hope that it turns into something more than friendship. Faye's perspective is really gripping and anyone who has gone through doubting themselves and regretting something will relate to her in this book.
Daron's perspective is more about navigating his career and relationship together. Throughout the book he struggles with the same as he did in the first book, how to protect everyone he loves from everything. I found Daron's perspective was relatable; he grows a lot in his interpersonal relationships and trusting himself in this instalment.
The new characters in this sequel are definitely a highlight of the book. The bring more depth to the novel and bring more history of Ether to the reader. The new characters provide more insight into how the world and races all connect and how long standing believes could have caused such a divide. Some The events of the novel were well written. I was surprised by some of them and predicted others. But there was enough twists to keep me engaged throughout. This series is about a war and obviously the characters went through loss. The reactions of the characters each had me crying.
Overall, I read through the book and the book is well paced for events. The themes and issues both the main characters are going through are relatable, even if they are in a fantasy world. I would recommend this series to anyone who loves mythology, fantasy or even adventure novels in the YA section. I can't wait for the next novel and hope that my ships and potential ships make it through this war between the two sides of Ether.
I would like to thank Nicole Bailey for sending me a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
December 29, 2020
I was invited by Nicole to be a part of the review team for Faye and the City in the Sea. I received a digital copy of the book in exchange for this review, which I am leaving voluntarily.
Faye and the City in the Sea is the sequel to Nicole’s first book Faye and the Ether (you can find my review here here) and I was so excited to be asked to review the second book, since I absolutely loved book 1! As this is a sequel there are spoilers for Book 1 in this review.
Faye is haunted by the blood on her hands, she’s traumatised by the horrors of battle and the bloodshed she witnessed. No amount of magic can erase the images of the lives lost. She can’t sleep. Can’t focus on anything but her terror. Daron is also suffering under the pressure of leadership but in a new and different way. Crippled by fear, he hunts for a way to protect both Faye and Alec from the ever-growing threat of Typhon. Faye is invited to full moon revelries at the undersea mercity, and there she discovers a new threat that endangers the whole city. Can she and Daron protect their new allies, or will the losses be too great?
I loved how this book dealt with the after-effects of the battle on the characters, Faye especially. As someone who hasn’t been in a war before, Faye was clearly going to struggle afterwards. It was great that this was included in the book, and I loved how Faye progressed through the book. I also loved how Daron & Alec’s relationship had an impact on Daron, and the difficulties of having loved ones involved in dangerous situations.
The characters really developed over this book, we got to see more of the characters’ families which really allowed me to connect with them better. I particularly loved learning about Telanes’ heritage, and he’s becoming one of my favourite characters (obviously tied with Alec!)
There were a few chapters told from Heracles’ perspective, and I really loved seeing from a ” bad guy’s ” point of view. It was interesting to see how his character was evolving, which is something you don’t often see – the evolution of a villainous character. I’m intrigued to see how Heracles’ story arc continues over the next books.
The Ether is such an imaginative world, and we got to see more of the world in this book. Particularly the mercity, and meet new characters there – I loved these new characters!
Long story short, I absolutely loved book 2 so so much! And I can already tell Nicole is going to completely destroy my heart over these characters by the time this series is finished!
Thanks again to Nicole for my review copy!
Faye and the City in the Sea is the sequel to Nicole’s first book Faye and the Ether (you can find my review here here) and I was so excited to be asked to review the second book, since I absolutely loved book 1! As this is a sequel there are spoilers for Book 1 in this review.
Faye is haunted by the blood on her hands, she’s traumatised by the horrors of battle and the bloodshed she witnessed. No amount of magic can erase the images of the lives lost. She can’t sleep. Can’t focus on anything but her terror. Daron is also suffering under the pressure of leadership but in a new and different way. Crippled by fear, he hunts for a way to protect both Faye and Alec from the ever-growing threat of Typhon. Faye is invited to full moon revelries at the undersea mercity, and there she discovers a new threat that endangers the whole city. Can she and Daron protect their new allies, or will the losses be too great?
I loved how this book dealt with the after-effects of the battle on the characters, Faye especially. As someone who hasn’t been in a war before, Faye was clearly going to struggle afterwards. It was great that this was included in the book, and I loved how Faye progressed through the book. I also loved how Daron & Alec’s relationship had an impact on Daron, and the difficulties of having loved ones involved in dangerous situations.
The characters really developed over this book, we got to see more of the characters’ families which really allowed me to connect with them better. I particularly loved learning about Telanes’ heritage, and he’s becoming one of my favourite characters (obviously tied with Alec!)
There were a few chapters told from Heracles’ perspective, and I really loved seeing from a ” bad guy’s ” point of view. It was interesting to see how his character was evolving, which is something you don’t often see – the evolution of a villainous character. I’m intrigued to see how Heracles’ story arc continues over the next books.
The Ether is such an imaginative world, and we got to see more of the world in this book. Particularly the mercity, and meet new characters there – I loved these new characters!
Long story short, I absolutely loved book 2 so so much! And I can already tell Nicole is going to completely destroy my heart over these characters by the time this series is finished!
Thanks again to Nicole for my review copy!
December 22, 2020
I was so excited to see book two in this series! Faye was struggling right at the end of the first book and we got some foreshadowing to the fact that she was going to struggle with some PTSD from her part in the battle at the end of book one. She is now afraid that she will hurt others due to her lack of finesse and control over her magic. Daron and Alec are determined not to waste any time and are very aware of how fleeting life can be since Alec was almost killed during the battle. Alec is my favorite character! He is so positive and fun no matter what happens and is determined not to let Daron wallow. Also Telanes is so stoic and is very good for Faye. He is the only one who seems to be able to calm her down and help her sleep. We also meet new characters, Marious the prince of the merpeople under the sea. I admit that I don’t like him very much at first and didn’t trust him from the moment he walked out of the ocean. He grew on me a little bit though as the book went on. I really enjoyed this book and the author continues to blow me away with the world she has created. I absolutely loved this book just as much as the first one. This is so good and should be on every list of books for young teens and adults to read. The characters all grow so much as the narrative continues. Actions have consequences and every one has responsibility to not just themselves but each other. I highly recommend this series so far and look forward to seeing where this whole thing goes!!!
January 13, 2021
Once again, Nicole Bailey has outdone herself in the next instalment of YA fantasy, FAYE AND THE ETHER series. With all the Greek mythology, mythical creatures, and found family of Percy Jackson and the angst of TJ Klune books, these books promise to steal your heart only to have you fall for characters who go through the most angst.
This highly-anticipated sequel follows Faye as she battles with the trauma of a won war. Although amongst her friends in the Ether, she's lost, struggling, bound to her memories of blood and war, unable to sleep. However, when she receives an offer to enhance her growing magic from a merprince, she takes the reprieve--which lulls the Ether into another scene: the mercity. I adored the different dynamics, the politics, and the cultures explored through this series. There isn't just the one way to be a creature in the Ether--each race has their own laws, cultures, languages, just like a mortal world. Needing support more than ever, Faye withdraws into herself--but finds that that's the only place that can heal her and strengthen her.
CITY IN THE SEA is beautifully imaginative, stunningly-written, and heart wrenchingly told through multi POVs that offer intriguing insight to other characters, giving only a glimpse of what's to come. I fell in love all over again with this story. I would honestly give my life for these characters, their battles, their stakes, their flaws and struggles. I love them all so, so dearly, and so so much.
This highly-anticipated sequel follows Faye as she battles with the trauma of a won war. Although amongst her friends in the Ether, she's lost, struggling, bound to her memories of blood and war, unable to sleep. However, when she receives an offer to enhance her growing magic from a merprince, she takes the reprieve--which lulls the Ether into another scene: the mercity. I adored the different dynamics, the politics, and the cultures explored through this series. There isn't just the one way to be a creature in the Ether--each race has their own laws, cultures, languages, just like a mortal world. Needing support more than ever, Faye withdraws into herself--but finds that that's the only place that can heal her and strengthen her.
CITY IN THE SEA is beautifully imaginative, stunningly-written, and heart wrenchingly told through multi POVs that offer intriguing insight to other characters, giving only a glimpse of what's to come. I fell in love all over again with this story. I would honestly give my life for these characters, their battles, their stakes, their flaws and struggles. I love them all so, so dearly, and so so much.
December 31, 2020
And the literary brilliance continues
I loved part #1 of this YA, urban fantasy saga and though I am generally skeptical about sequels, this was a treat to read from start to finish.
The story picks off from the aftermath of the battle in book #1 where we find Faye a little distraught and coming to terms with her post war trauma and the lives that were lost. The mood is sober and even Daron worries about what's to come and the safety of the ones he loves.
With Telanes by her side, Faye struggles with getting past her trauma, her alliance with the MerFolk and fine tuning her powers to save the MerCity from destruction. Once again, Author Bailey does a brilliant job at world building and the imagery painted by her words is so very beautiful to read.
Alec and Daron's chemistry once again shines through and the author teases us with Faye and her growing emotions for Telanes and the attention she's getting from the MerPrince.
As new powers are uncovered and a rollercoaster of emotions ensues, the adventures in the Ether world is afoot. It would be exciting to see how the story pans out in the parts to come. Book #3 come soon.
I loved part #1 of this YA, urban fantasy saga and though I am generally skeptical about sequels, this was a treat to read from start to finish.
The story picks off from the aftermath of the battle in book #1 where we find Faye a little distraught and coming to terms with her post war trauma and the lives that were lost. The mood is sober and even Daron worries about what's to come and the safety of the ones he loves.
With Telanes by her side, Faye struggles with getting past her trauma, her alliance with the MerFolk and fine tuning her powers to save the MerCity from destruction. Once again, Author Bailey does a brilliant job at world building and the imagery painted by her words is so very beautiful to read.
|"“How can so much beauty still exist?” I said. “Beauty has always existed, even in the hardest of times. And it will carry on existing when the hard times have passed.”|
Alec and Daron's chemistry once again shines through and the author teases us with Faye and her growing emotions for Telanes and the attention she's getting from the MerPrince.
As new powers are uncovered and a rollercoaster of emotions ensues, the adventures in the Ether world is afoot. It would be exciting to see how the story pans out in the parts to come. Book #3 come soon.
December 29, 2020
I loved the first volume in this series and was curious to see how the author would develop the world and the characters and I am delighted to say this is another home run. The world building continues to be top notch and it is handled smoothly and by having the characters interact with the world around them, not by just dumping information around. That brings me to the characters and their depth. Repercussions from what happened in the first book go deeply into this one. Both Faye and Daron are dealing with guilt and PTSD basically from the things that they have done and their emotions are visceral and heartbreaking. This YA doesn't pull any punches here. Finally, we have the developing romance between Daron and Alec which is just wonderful. It is so loving and supportive and gives one hope for this world. Only decent, loving people like this will be able to work with Faye and defeat the threats that are out there. I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
December 7, 2020
A massive thank you to Nicole Bailey for sending me an ARC to review in return for an honest review.
I absolutely can’t get enough of this series and these characters. I read Faye and the City in the Sea as slow as I possibly could. I already wanted to be immersed in the Ether, and now I want live in the MerCity. I don’t know how Nicole does it but she’s created the most magical setting for the most emotional and exciting plot lines. I felt every feeling in this story full heartedly. Faye’s anxiety and depression, Daron’s worry and angst, Alec’s pure and unhindered love, Telanes calm and patient kindness, and mostly Lana’s exuberant joy. These characters are more than characters they’re all of us and Nicole shows us our own beauty and strength through them. I’m mind blown by how much I love this series, and I feel so lucky to have had a chance to be one of the firsts to read them. I can not wait for book three!!!
Thank you Nicole for another beautiful story of Faye and her friends in the Ether, it was utterly perfect!!
I absolutely can’t get enough of this series and these characters. I read Faye and the City in the Sea as slow as I possibly could. I already wanted to be immersed in the Ether, and now I want live in the MerCity. I don’t know how Nicole does it but she’s created the most magical setting for the most emotional and exciting plot lines. I felt every feeling in this story full heartedly. Faye’s anxiety and depression, Daron’s worry and angst, Alec’s pure and unhindered love, Telanes calm and patient kindness, and mostly Lana’s exuberant joy. These characters are more than characters they’re all of us and Nicole shows us our own beauty and strength through them. I’m mind blown by how much I love this series, and I feel so lucky to have had a chance to be one of the firsts to read them. I can not wait for book three!!!
Thank you Nicole for another beautiful story of Faye and her friends in the Ether, it was utterly perfect!!
August 9, 2021
I can't remember the last time I read a book in a day. My head is spinning and I see bright lights on my peripheral view. Nothing to do about it, it was impossible to put this one down.
I have--and I'm not exaggerating this at all--the weirdest, most exhilarating relationship with Faye. And it's driving me crazy because I can't put my finger on it! The thing is... I do not like her! I respect her, I admire her, I definitely feel sad for her when she hurts, and I want her to have a happily ever after. But there is something about her personality that rubs me in a weird way. The absolutely marvelous thing about this is that I've never felt that way about a book character before. I either like or dislike them, gray areas are not my thing.
There are so many wonderful things about this book, but this is what compels me the most. The amazing layers of her personality had turned Faye into someone real for me, and that's probably why I read this in one day. How could I turn my attention elsewhere when all this was happening?
Before I go enjoy my existential crisis let me recommend you this book. Maybe grab a glass of wine before.
I have--and I'm not exaggerating this at all--the weirdest, most exhilarating relationship with Faye. And it's driving me crazy because I can't put my finger on it! The thing is... I do not like her! I respect her, I admire her, I definitely feel sad for her when she hurts, and I want her to have a happily ever after. But there is something about her personality that rubs me in a weird way. The absolutely marvelous thing about this is that I've never felt that way about a book character before. I either like or dislike them, gray areas are not my thing.
There are so many wonderful things about this book, but this is what compels me the most. The amazing layers of her personality had turned Faye into someone real for me, and that's probably why I read this in one day. How could I turn my attention elsewhere when all this was happening?
Before I go enjoy my existential crisis let me recommend you this book. Maybe grab a glass of wine before.
December 30, 2020
The second book was even better than the first. I really enjoyed watching Faye and Daron continue to grow. Their adventures with the mermaids were great and I loved seeing Nicole give real world problems to the characters. Alec was great as he continued to be steady and comforting by Daron's side and not letting him get away with his moping. There are great interests for Faye, I am excited to see their relationships expand in future books. The world building continues to amaze me. I really enjoyed watching how real the book was, even though there are fantastical elements. The characters are just so real and three dimensional. I really feel like I know them. I loved this book, I didn't think it could get better after the first book, but I am glad to be proven wrong. I highly recommend this book.
December 29, 2020
I was super excited to be able to read the second book in this trilogy and I absolutely loved it.
There's so much I want to say about this book I don't know where to begin. The mythical Greek aspect of the books is perfect and I enjoyed how they are made relatable which makes them easier to connect with.
This book deals with the aftermath from the first book and is a roller-coaster of emotions. Top tip, don't read it at work.
This YA fantasy series is really one to dig into and I hope you find it as enjoyable to read as I have!
Thank you for letting me read the arc, I loved it.
There's so much I want to say about this book I don't know where to begin. The mythical Greek aspect of the books is perfect and I enjoyed how they are made relatable which makes them easier to connect with.
This book deals with the aftermath from the first book and is a roller-coaster of emotions. Top tip, don't read it at work.
This YA fantasy series is really one to dig into and I hope you find it as enjoyable to read as I have!
Thank you for letting me read the arc, I loved it.
January 21, 2021
ᗩᑎOTᕼᗴᖇ ᖴᗩᑎTᗩꌚTᎥᑕ ᖇᗴᗩᗪ
ᗯOᗩᕼ. First page, we jump into the dark side. Unexpected, even with the trigger warning, but maybe I should’ve gone back and skimmed back over the last few chapters of book one. Faye is really suffering from PTSD & everyone around her is allowing her to choose whether she wants help or not. By chapter five I’m quite frustrated but bit by bit, her people are realizing they can’t just leave her be and are stepping in.
The war prep, intrigue, relationships, cultures, fantasy, it’s all so well detailed and wonderful to read.
This story is very serious and intense, but written perfectly for young teens through adults. Every bit as enjoyable as book one. Highly recommended.
ᗯOᗩᕼ. First page, we jump into the dark side. Unexpected, even with the trigger warning, but maybe I should’ve gone back and skimmed back over the last few chapters of book one. Faye is really suffering from PTSD & everyone around her is allowing her to choose whether she wants help or not. By chapter five I’m quite frustrated but bit by bit, her people are realizing they can’t just leave her be and are stepping in.
The war prep, intrigue, relationships, cultures, fantasy, it’s all so well detailed and wonderful to read.
This story is very serious and intense, but written perfectly for young teens through adults. Every bit as enjoyable as book one. Highly recommended.
December 29, 2020
This book was just so breathtaking. It picks up right after the first book and we follow Faye and her friends as they pick up the pieces after that epic battle. Faye spends much of this novel struggling with ptsd and mental health issues. I found it touching how everyone supported her and was there for her however she needed them to be. It was amazing. Along with dealing with that she is also trying to get a handle on her powers. New characters are introduced that are going to play a big role in things to come. Friendships deepen and new alliances are made. Things move quicker in this novel, with the world building having been done previously. The world is expanded and explained more as things progress, giving insights into why things are as they are and why the war is happening. I am very excited to see where things go from here. I have become very attached to the characters and I am invested in what happens now.
*if you struggle with ptsd there may be some triggering scenes. Please be advised.
*if you struggle with ptsd there may be some triggering scenes. Please be advised.
December 5, 2021
My goodness! I finished the first book, and now, three days later, I’ve finished the second. Nicole has out done herself once again. Faye and the City in the Sea was breathtaking, and I couldn’t put it down.
In this book, Faye struggles with mental health issues and episodes of PTSD, but readers are comforted not only by the support the character receives throughout the book, but also by the author. Nicole provides a trigger warning at the beginning of the book, and for me, as not only a reader but also a psychology major, the inclusion of that makes me feel a sense of security and a sense of trust. It means that Nicole cares for the well-being and mental health of her readers.
With the major world building already established in the first book, it left room for Faye and Daron to grow and become these fantastic and really intriguing characters both separately and together.
I know that Nicole is in the process of submitting her third book for publishing and is writing the draft for the fourth book, and I am beyond excited, not only for myself because I excited to read the next step in the story, but also for Nicole as a huge fan!
I am so grateful that Nicole gave me the opportunity read the ARC of her second book! I can’t recommend this book and this series enough.
Although I received this free ARC e-book from the author, this review is my own opinion and posted by my own free will! ✨💕🧜♀️
In this book, Faye struggles with mental health issues and episodes of PTSD, but readers are comforted not only by the support the character receives throughout the book, but also by the author. Nicole provides a trigger warning at the beginning of the book, and for me, as not only a reader but also a psychology major, the inclusion of that makes me feel a sense of security and a sense of trust. It means that Nicole cares for the well-being and mental health of her readers.
With the major world building already established in the first book, it left room for Faye and Daron to grow and become these fantastic and really intriguing characters both separately and together.
I know that Nicole is in the process of submitting her third book for publishing and is writing the draft for the fourth book, and I am beyond excited, not only for myself because I excited to read the next step in the story, but also for Nicole as a huge fan!
I am so grateful that Nicole gave me the opportunity read the ARC of her second book! I can’t recommend this book and this series enough.
Although I received this free ARC e-book from the author, this review is my own opinion and posted by my own free will! ✨💕🧜♀️
December 10, 2020
First of all, I loved the first book in this series, Faye and the Ether, and if you haven't read it yet, you really need to read it before reading this second book. Faye and the City in the Sea starts off with Faye, Daron, and Alec still reeling from the events at the end of the first book. Faye, who was raised human, is really struggling with the death, the loss, and her hand in it after a battle in the 1st book. She has PTSD, and has panic attacks and flashbacks, but Nicole Bailey handles it all really well, and it's very relatable. I like that she isn't suddenly okay with bloodshed, and isn't an instant warrior- it just makes her so much more real, despite the magical world of the Ether.
At the same time, Daron is also really struggling with the fact that his position will endanger the one he loves. Even though Alec is one of the most skilled of all the protectors, the danger they faced in the last battle made it all that more real that they weren't invincible. He has to figure out how to balance leading his team of elite protectors, wanting to keep Alec safe, and also trusting Alec to do the job he has trained to do.
On top of all the emotional turmoil, there's a lot of other stuff happening, and we meet a lot of great characters. We meet Marious, the prince of the merfolk, and get to dive deep under the sea, where Faye experiences how different life is for the merfolk versus the protector camps. There is much beauty, and appreciation of art, and also water magic, which Faye is still learning. There are plans for Faye among the leaders of the merfolk. I really love the differences we get to see as we travel back and forth from land to the mercity.
Through all the different things she goes through and exeperiences throughout the book, she starts to heal, but also is learning more about herself and what she is capable of. With help from a friend, Telanes, who has been completely devoted to her and been at her side whenever she needed it, she learns to embrace more of her unique abilities.
The battle scene at the end of this was just super slick and epic- so well written. I really love how this book ended. I think Nicole has an amazing grasp on her characters and their inner and outer conflicts, she also does such a beautiful job describing things, it's very picturesque- with every scene she gives you enough to make it feel as if you could walk right into that setting and you would know exactly what to expect. I also really love the representation she has in her books. I love that there are healthy relationships, strong friendships, and found family
She definitely has become one of my favorite authors, and I am really excited to see where this story goes.
At the same time, Daron is also really struggling with the fact that his position will endanger the one he loves. Even though Alec is one of the most skilled of all the protectors, the danger they faced in the last battle made it all that more real that they weren't invincible. He has to figure out how to balance leading his team of elite protectors, wanting to keep Alec safe, and also trusting Alec to do the job he has trained to do.
On top of all the emotional turmoil, there's a lot of other stuff happening, and we meet a lot of great characters. We meet Marious, the prince of the merfolk, and get to dive deep under the sea, where Faye experiences how different life is for the merfolk versus the protector camps. There is much beauty, and appreciation of art, and also water magic, which Faye is still learning. There are plans for Faye among the leaders of the merfolk. I really love the differences we get to see as we travel back and forth from land to the mercity.
Through all the different things she goes through and exeperiences throughout the book, she starts to heal, but also is learning more about herself and what she is capable of. With help from a friend, Telanes, who has been completely devoted to her and been at her side whenever she needed it, she learns to embrace more of her unique abilities.
The battle scene at the end of this was just super slick and epic- so well written. I really love how this book ended. I think Nicole has an amazing grasp on her characters and their inner and outer conflicts, she also does such a beautiful job describing things, it's very picturesque- with every scene she gives you enough to make it feel as if you could walk right into that setting and you would know exactly what to expect. I also really love the representation she has in her books. I love that there are healthy relationships, strong friendships, and found family
She definitely has become one of my favorite authors, and I am really excited to see where this story goes.
July 31, 2021
I liked this sequel even better than the first book! Faye’s struggle with PTSD was really interesting. Typically in fantasy stories with a chosen one trope, the characters take to the conflict so easily, and I think it was fascinating to see Faye struggle so much with it, yet she always remained committed to the fight. The character development between Faye and the merpeople was also great, and of course Alec and Daron were as precious as ever. But my favorite part was the evolution of the relationship between Faye and Telanes. I hope more develops there, but even if they only remain close friends, their relationship is beautiful. I can’t wait to start the next one!
April 6, 2021
I'm finally back to actually write the review I intended when I originally finished this book. This was certainly a story with a heavier tone, especially as it relates to Faye and her struggles to overcome the trauma she survived. It was perhaps what made this book stand out to me, the way in which she struggles her way through PTSD and all of the challenges that entails. You feel for her at every step along the journey she takes, hoping that she finds her way through it. I also immensely enjoyed the way in which the world of the Ether opens up even more, as we're introduced to the Mercity and its inhabitants. You get the sense, too, that this world is only just starting to be revealed and that's a true testament to the power of the mythology that infuses this tale. I'm eagerly looking forward to what comes next for Faye and her friends, even if I am a little cross about the fate of one particular character. (Yes, I'm still holding on to that, and no, I don't intend to let it go. HA!)
January 27, 2021
After receiving book one as a free arc I was so caught up with the characters and their story that I had to buy book two right away.
It's such an intense read! Faye struggles with fear, loss, pain, depression,... I so wanted to hug her. I cried with her and wished that she'll find happiness.
We're getting closer to the war, with the mercity being attacked in this book. I love how the author describes the feelings of the different characters about the war, how she shows their fears and hopes. It's very emotional.
I can't wait for book three!
It's such an intense read! Faye struggles with fear, loss, pain, depression,... I so wanted to hug her. I cried with her and wished that she'll find happiness.
We're getting closer to the war, with the mercity being attacked in this book. I love how the author describes the feelings of the different characters about the war, how she shows their fears and hopes. It's very emotional.
I can't wait for book three!
February 21, 2021
First of all thank you to the author and publisher for providing me with a free advanced copy to read and review honestly.
I wasn’t looking forward to writing this one. I gave the first book high marks and so was very disappointed to discover how much I did not like this book. This feels to me like a classic case of “let’s just write something so we could make it a trilogy.” I was bored almost throughout and couldn’t wait to get through it. As far as the PTSD goes, I don’t have much to say and no real opinion on the handling of the topic. Let’s just leave it be.
Some big spoilers ahead - reader beware!
The Plot:
In the second book, Faye and her group (the Protectors) continue to prepare for the war against Typhon. They discover he has a plan to attack the Mer-city, which Faye has begun visiting on the reg as part of a strategic alliance. She is battling with the mental and emotional trauma of the big battle from the previous book throughout.
The Characters:
I have already introduced Daron, Faye, and Alec in my previous review. In this book we get to meet (or know more of) the following:
Telanes: Oh I said in the previous review that I had a feeling who was going to be a love interest in the next book, and I was right (although I didn’t share it because I didn’t want to post spoilers). Telanes is the man every woman wants, or at least should: he is hot, patient, understanding, caring... he is as STEADY as they get. And so of course yet again we are teased for no reason or fault: Telanes is completely in love. Fay acts like he’s transparent, or like the teenager who will spoon with you every single night and call you in the middle of the night to come be with her, but will never even let you get to first base. Telanes spends the whole book giving, but being looked through like he’s made of air. And perhaps his damned steadiness is ultimately his downfall as a character: he never shows any complex human (or centaur?) emotion. Never jealous, never frustrated with being friend-zoned at best and simply ignored at worst... just... nothing. A placard of a Prince Charming that even all the monster-fighting he engages in doesn’t win him the coveted princess. As a reader, I am pissed for yet again being *bad-word* teased with a non-existent romance. This isn’t how you build sexual tension; ask Sarah J. Mass who superbly gave us 5 books’ worth of rising attraction in her Throne of Glass series.
Marious: the Mer prince. Here, another missed opportunity. Daron, who is our Ether guide in a sense from the beginning, distrusts Marious. A smoking gun in the first act that never fires. Marious truly falls in love with Faye and the other shoe never drops. He could have been so much more delicious if he was double crossing the gang or had some real ulterior motive. If he has it in the final book of the series that would be some sort of saving grace, but probably will cause much eyebrow raising at why nothing was hinted enough in this book.
Lana: Faye’s attendant-turned-bestie. A real supporting character, Faye’s only sense of normalcy in her otherwise depressed and traumatized existence. As such, little wonder at her being disposable.
The Good:
I really enjoyed the 2-3 chapters of the climactic battle. Well written, fast-paced, and I actually read them with interest and bated breath. Unfortunately, try as hard as I might, I could not think of much else.
The Bad:
Oh man, so much. I have already expressed my ire at being teased for no reason. There needed to be some romance there, simply because it was already written into it in the form of Telanes and Marious. It’s like the author was gun shy or didn’t know how to actually deliver on the promise she herself had made when she committed to the idea of people finding Faye romantically interesting. Having this bait and switch happen for a second book in a row isn’t nice. It’s just plain annoying to the reader.
Next we have Alec and Daron, who are the most boring couple in the world. Yes, a steady and loving relationship is nice in real life, but not when you have to create drama to keep your reader awake. Here, another missed opportunity at real conflict: they could have fought and separated over Daron’s protectiveness. They could have had to lose something to learn that they need to earn one another. None of that happens and so their chapters bored me to tears.
This whole story, nothing really happens. Faye struggles internally, yes, with trauma, but as a result she hardly DOES anything in this book and a main character with no action? Well that’s just wrong. Maybe in real life PTSD and depression really are crippling, but you can’t get away with it in a book; you need to write action. The whole plot meanders until the main battle, the climax of the story, but we are bored and spent by then. There were no other real challenges to fuel us along the way.
Speaking of conflict, there are no real bad guys in this story. Typhon and Heracles are held at such a safe distance away, that we don’t feel the high stakes at all. I didn’t feel the need to root for our characters, since the danger never felt real to me. It never truly involved me or was set up to make me feel like I had a stake in it. A reader that is comfortably watching through the glass is not what one should want; you want me bleeding and sweaty in there with you. That didn’t happen for me (with the exception of the two battle episodes. They were too little and too late).
Even Heracles, the bad, absent father and the supposed plot-twist involving him fell flat for me. Faye doesn’t think about him or care about him. She isn’t even all that surprised by his helping her. The chapters narrated by him don’t serve as anything, especially not as a much-needed window into his soul and inner workings. Want to write a complex evil father-daughter relationship? Go read Holly Black’s Folk of the Air trilogy and see how that’s done.
Lastly, there’s the writing. I have already expressed my unhappiness with authors giving their characters elementary-school level dialogue. Simplistic, inane, says-nothing filler-talk. I recently rewatched Dawson’s Creek and thought, “yes! Teenagers did speak like this! With complex ideas and a vocabulary of more than 100 words at best!” My point is, I’m sure teens still do, and I resent authors who pass on the chance to give their characters rich, expressive mouths.
The Ugly:
Probably me, drooling over my Kindle as I struggle to keep my eyes open 10 minutes into my nightly reading ritual and this book.
The Bottom Line:
A classic case of what should have probably been a duology. The pace and plot would have probably been tighter. I will probably only read the third because I’m a committed masochist who wants to believe this could somehow still be saved.
I wasn’t looking forward to writing this one. I gave the first book high marks and so was very disappointed to discover how much I did not like this book. This feels to me like a classic case of “let’s just write something so we could make it a trilogy.” I was bored almost throughout and couldn’t wait to get through it. As far as the PTSD goes, I don’t have much to say and no real opinion on the handling of the topic. Let’s just leave it be.
Some big spoilers ahead - reader beware!
The Plot:
In the second book, Faye and her group (the Protectors) continue to prepare for the war against Typhon. They discover he has a plan to attack the Mer-city, which Faye has begun visiting on the reg as part of a strategic alliance. She is battling with the mental and emotional trauma of the big battle from the previous book throughout.
The Characters:
I have already introduced Daron, Faye, and Alec in my previous review. In this book we get to meet (or know more of) the following:
Telanes: Oh I said in the previous review that I had a feeling who was going to be a love interest in the next book, and I was right (although I didn’t share it because I didn’t want to post spoilers). Telanes is the man every woman wants, or at least should: he is hot, patient, understanding, caring... he is as STEADY as they get. And so of course yet again we are teased for no reason or fault: Telanes is completely in love. Fay acts like he’s transparent, or like the teenager who will spoon with you every single night and call you in the middle of the night to come be with her, but will never even let you get to first base. Telanes spends the whole book giving, but being looked through like he’s made of air. And perhaps his damned steadiness is ultimately his downfall as a character: he never shows any complex human (or centaur?) emotion. Never jealous, never frustrated with being friend-zoned at best and simply ignored at worst... just... nothing. A placard of a Prince Charming that even all the monster-fighting he engages in doesn’t win him the coveted princess. As a reader, I am pissed for yet again being *bad-word* teased with a non-existent romance. This isn’t how you build sexual tension; ask Sarah J. Mass who superbly gave us 5 books’ worth of rising attraction in her Throne of Glass series.
Marious: the Mer prince. Here, another missed opportunity. Daron, who is our Ether guide in a sense from the beginning, distrusts Marious. A smoking gun in the first act that never fires. Marious truly falls in love with Faye and the other shoe never drops. He could have been so much more delicious if he was double crossing the gang or had some real ulterior motive. If he has it in the final book of the series that would be some sort of saving grace, but probably will cause much eyebrow raising at why nothing was hinted enough in this book.
Lana: Faye’s attendant-turned-bestie. A real supporting character, Faye’s only sense of normalcy in her otherwise depressed and traumatized existence. As such, little wonder at her being disposable.
The Good:
I really enjoyed the 2-3 chapters of the climactic battle. Well written, fast-paced, and I actually read them with interest and bated breath. Unfortunately, try as hard as I might, I could not think of much else.
The Bad:
Oh man, so much. I have already expressed my ire at being teased for no reason. There needed to be some romance there, simply because it was already written into it in the form of Telanes and Marious. It’s like the author was gun shy or didn’t know how to actually deliver on the promise she herself had made when she committed to the idea of people finding Faye romantically interesting. Having this bait and switch happen for a second book in a row isn’t nice. It’s just plain annoying to the reader.
Next we have Alec and Daron, who are the most boring couple in the world. Yes, a steady and loving relationship is nice in real life, but not when you have to create drama to keep your reader awake. Here, another missed opportunity at real conflict: they could have fought and separated over Daron’s protectiveness. They could have had to lose something to learn that they need to earn one another. None of that happens and so their chapters bored me to tears.
This whole story, nothing really happens. Faye struggles internally, yes, with trauma, but as a result she hardly DOES anything in this book and a main character with no action? Well that’s just wrong. Maybe in real life PTSD and depression really are crippling, but you can’t get away with it in a book; you need to write action. The whole plot meanders until the main battle, the climax of the story, but we are bored and spent by then. There were no other real challenges to fuel us along the way.
Speaking of conflict, there are no real bad guys in this story. Typhon and Heracles are held at such a safe distance away, that we don’t feel the high stakes at all. I didn’t feel the need to root for our characters, since the danger never felt real to me. It never truly involved me or was set up to make me feel like I had a stake in it. A reader that is comfortably watching through the glass is not what one should want; you want me bleeding and sweaty in there with you. That didn’t happen for me (with the exception of the two battle episodes. They were too little and too late).
Even Heracles, the bad, absent father and the supposed plot-twist involving him fell flat for me. Faye doesn’t think about him or care about him. She isn’t even all that surprised by his helping her. The chapters narrated by him don’t serve as anything, especially not as a much-needed window into his soul and inner workings. Want to write a complex evil father-daughter relationship? Go read Holly Black’s Folk of the Air trilogy and see how that’s done.
Lastly, there’s the writing. I have already expressed my unhappiness with authors giving their characters elementary-school level dialogue. Simplistic, inane, says-nothing filler-talk. I recently rewatched Dawson’s Creek and thought, “yes! Teenagers did speak like this! With complex ideas and a vocabulary of more than 100 words at best!” My point is, I’m sure teens still do, and I resent authors who pass on the chance to give their characters rich, expressive mouths.
The Ugly:
Probably me, drooling over my Kindle as I struggle to keep my eyes open 10 minutes into my nightly reading ritual and this book.
The Bottom Line:
A classic case of what should have probably been a duology. The pace and plot would have probably been tighter. I will probably only read the third because I’m a committed masochist who wants to believe this could somehow still be saved.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2021
Ugh, unfortunately fated Faye. (Cue Ursula singing…). This continuation of Faye’s journey in the Ether and finding her place in her new home was rough. If you have ever experienced trauma that keeps showing up unbidden, keeping you from sleep as even a blink of your eyes can be enough to transport you back, your heart will ache for Faye. If you have battle related PTSD this book might be a hard read. The characters come more into their own in this second book. Relationships blossom, or start to take root. A new city, this one under the sea, is introduced, along with the mer-residents and a new BFF. Faye is still trying to do what she can to bring the various races together even as she is suffering greatly herself. She doesn’t realize the force that she truly is. Another enjoyable fantasy read from Bailey (although a couple of the events made me so sad!)!
July 5, 2021
Interesting world, pacing problems.
I gave the first book 3 stars and was hoping to like the series more after reading the second book, but I unfortunately don’t. I think this author is great at writing a new world and interesting characters, but the pacing could use a lot of help. So much of both books was just waiting around and then random action at the end, with too much time spent on stuff that doesn’t need pages of details and vice versa. And I’ve been told the third book is much the same so I don’t plan on reading anymore. Perhaps a talented editor would help elevate this author’s storytelling?
I gave the first book 3 stars and was hoping to like the series more after reading the second book, but I unfortunately don’t. I think this author is great at writing a new world and interesting characters, but the pacing could use a lot of help. So much of both books was just waiting around and then random action at the end, with too much time spent on stuff that doesn’t need pages of details and vice versa. And I’ve been told the third book is much the same so I don’t plan on reading anymore. Perhaps a talented editor would help elevate this author’s storytelling?
November 29, 2021
3.5 stars. I read these back to back so one review for all. Good world building around the girl who thought she was human but is instead a super powerful magic user who can change the world. What I liked was the Faye didn't instantly become a super hero. In fact, she failed several times and suffered from PTSD which seems like it would be a real problem in these stories. Overall message is give peace a chance albeit with a high head count.
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