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The Younglings #2

Fire & Magic

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They’ve vowed to protect innocents from darkness. Will he and his friends fall victim to the fight between good and evil?

Quinn Carter would love a moment of peace. But when a movie date is cut short by the sobbing spirit of a murdered student, the half-demon and his team of supernaturals bring down the serial killer responsible. And things only get worse when the seventeen-year-old hero learns his dream girl’s special blood is the target of a twisted vampire…

Springing into action after one of his group is kidnapped by a witch hunter, Quinn and his found family confront combat bloodsuckers while a spy infiltrates their ranks. But his real battle turns out to be accepting that he’s worthy of his angel’s heart.

With witches, vampires, and romantic disasters imploding their world, will he live to see eighteen?

Fire & Magic is the brimstone-infused second book in The Younglings YA paranormal fantasy series. If you like loyal heroes, quick humor, and surprising twists, then you’ll adore Helena M Craggs’s hot super squad.

The Younglings:
Book ①: Shadows & Magic
Book ②: Fire & Magic
Book ③: Mayhem & Magic
◆This is a series that will stimulate your imagination whilst worming its way into your heart◆

◆◆ It’s up there with my favourite reads: ‘From Blood and Ash’, ‘Discovery of Witches’ and ‘True Blood’. ◆◆

◆◆ These characters are honestly in my heart to stay, much like ‘Angel’ and the ‘Charmed’ sisters are all these years later.◆◆

◆◆ The Younglings are like a modern, and way hotter, Scooby squad. ◆◆

423 pages, Paperback

First published June 6, 2022

5 people are currently reading
62 people want to read

About the author

Helena M. Craggs

6 books115 followers
I’ve been a voracious reader ever since I was a little girl wandering the library aisles, letting my imagination run wild in fantastical worlds. These days, I’m still a devoted bibliophile, forever enchanted by the escapism of swoon-worthy romances and faraway realms. I believe books hold infinite possibilities—and mine are no exception. In my NA series, expect magic, sharp banter, morally grey heartthrobs, fierce and witty heroines, and more than a little passion. My YA urban fantasy has magic, danger, and super-hot supernaturals.


I live in rural West Yorkshire, England, with two ridiculously gorgeous pups, two perpetually cynical cats who very much run the household, a chicken with attitude… and a husband. When I’m not writing, I’m either devouring fantasy novels (the more romance, the better), laughing with friends, or rambling through the countryside with my dogs.

I'm mainly on Instagram, where I'm ready to talk fictional crushes and nerd out over books. (Okay, okay. And I've also been known to share snippets and teasers from my upcoming novels, if you're into that sort of thing...) Please feel free to chat with me there @craggshm. I love talking with fellow authors and readers.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
Profile Image for Kat.
Author 14 books605 followers
November 7, 2022
I absolutely love THE YOUNGLINGS series. Quinn, Eve and their friends battle supernatural foes, stress about revealing the truth to their parents…because which is worse, telling their mom (Quinn’s) and dad (Eve’s) you are a demon and an angel, or telling them you’ve been secretly dating? Juicy drama! This series has demons, angels, vampires, werewolves, ghosts, and witches. I love the way the action seamlessly switches off between the gang tracking down supernatural baddies—the way author Helena Craggs writes action scenes is top notch!—and angsty times for the teen group, and fun college stuff like parties and barbecues. Quinn is still struggling to understand his half-demon side and the implications of his power as the son of one of the most powerful demons alive. Is it safe for him to be in a relationship with Eve? Their love is intense and drives the book forward. I am so attached to all these characters and their quirky personalities. I especially enjoy the way the relationships between Quinn and his parental figures are written. With his demon grandmother 😊, his demon father who he’s getting to know, and his mom, there are so many great scenes that are really nicely done. I’m excited for book three! 5/5 stars.
Profile Image for Natalie "Curling up with a Coffee and a Kindle" Laird.
1,399 reviews103 followers
July 14, 2022
As a member of Love Books Tours, I have found incredible books and authors that were previously unknown to me, and this is the series that has really shone through my time in that group.
I am a fairly new fantasy reader, but Craggs has made me sad I have only started reading it in recent years.
If this is what fantasy books can be like, throw them my way!!!
This series would give someone a perfect introduction to reading this genre, as it gives a gripping, easy read with likeable characters. I love all the characters as they have something unique about them. The fact this is classed as YA shouldn't put you off , this is a wonderful series! The characters now feel like old friends, although they felt like that after only a few chapters of book 1! This is the second book, and I do think they need to be read in order- but believe me, you'll see why!
The keepers are a great mix of supernaturals- there is something here for everyone and they all add something to the books.
Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Michael.
328 reviews111 followers
December 5, 2022
4-stars.

I enjoyed this, though for some reason not as much as the first book. I think that had to do with the age-group of the characters and the resulting romances. I'm not a fan of romance, but happily, the romances go on in the background while the main plot advances.

If you like the idea of Paranormal YA fantasy with a side-order of romance, then this could well be the series for you.

I look forward to the release of book 3 in 2023.
Profile Image for Wendy Bayne.
Author 23 books68 followers
May 13, 2022
I was fortunate enough to be asked to be an ARC reader and Highly recommended this book.
Helena M Cragg is a rising star in the YA urban/paranormal genre. A fantastic talent who sucks you into the world of Quinn Carter, half Demon. Together with his supernatural friends and Eve, his half-angel love interest, they have banded together to protect the innocents in their world.
This sequel to The Younglings brings all the suspense, humour and romance found in the first book.

In College, they are now dealing with all the angst and expectations of coming of age. At the same time, the group are pitted against an army of witch hunters seeking to destroy their close friend and powerful witch, Millie. But, an additional danger lurks in the shadows. The vampires are out to capture Eve for her healing blood going to extraordinarily horrific lengths to obtain their prize.

But is there a double-cross in the works, and who is at its heart?

Craggs has a masterful touch at storytelling, keeping the pace moving forward and, as a result, putting Fire and Magic down is not easy.
Profile Image for Eva Alton.
Author 38 books221 followers
June 9, 2022
I love these books and H. Craggs didn't disappoint in Fire and Magic. The story picks up right where The Younglings, Shadows and Magic, ended. There's lots of adventure and action in this book, but also the love story between Eve and Quinn continues. This book is a page turner, with the characteristic witty writing and funny lines we already found in the first one. Also, whenever I picked it up I ended up staying much later than I intended to, because it keeps you wanting to know what is going to happen next. There are ghosts, vampires, shifters and demons, just like in the previous one. If the first book was great, I'd say this one is even better. A great sequel, which left me wanting to read the next one.
Profile Image for T.R. Hamby.
Author 12 books39 followers
June 23, 2022
Author Craggs has wow’d me again with her next book in this series.
It was really great to see the love bloom between Quinn and Eve, and sad to see one relationship end (for now, I have hope for them)
The adventures are edge of your seat amazing.
I can’t wait for book 3
Profile Image for S.P. O'Farrell.
Author 3 books118 followers
June 6, 2022
This second installment in The Younglings hits all the right notes within the paranormal urban fantasy genre. Light and nimble, Fire & Magic picks up with our band of charmed heroes navigating college, deepening relationships, and of course, aiding a growing number of lingering souls. As with all solid second installments, the stakes are rising and the characters are starting to look outward and question their choices.

All the characters are back with Eve and Quinn now driving the story. Cragg skillfully starts to jockey them within the friend group as adolescence has now faded away. Attention to all the characters is appropriately measured with the stalwart Mrs. D continuing to provide a thoughtful amount of solace and insight. Readers will also enjoy the infusion of several new characters including an aspiring vampire and a cadre of persistent witches.

What I particularly enjoyed was Craggs’ precise plotting and sensible blending of the extraordinary and the plausible. Targeted to the young adult audience, all readers will enjoy the expertly portrayed perils of young love, growing rivalries, and the unwavering bonds of friendship. I can’t wait for the next one.
Profile Image for Dani (piggindani_reads).
462 reviews10 followers
June 16, 2022
Starting this book was like reuniting with old friends. They are a little older, not that much wiser, but still the same dynamic group they were in the first book.

If you haven’t read book 1, firstly why not? Lol, but it doesn’t matter because you get a recap and an introduction to the Spook Crew aka The Younglings, so it’s easy to follow and understand.

Omg! Another jam-packed book full of angst, heartache and, of course, battles and fights.
This time, amongst their other ghostbusting exploits, they have to contend with witch hunters, vampires and an evil that might be lurking a little closer to home!
With all that you know you are in for one hell of a ride that’s guaranteed to keep you turning the page.

Unlike Shadow and Magic, I don’t think I could pick a favourite character. They all have so much I love about them. From the wonderful Mrs D to Harry and from Leo to Frank. Seriously, all are brilliant and make me want to be one of their crew.

I cannot recommend this series highly enough. Helena M. Craggs is a fantastic storyteller. She pulls you in with gorgeous & loveable characters, keeps you mesmerised by the fabulous descriptions and hocked with all the action.

Thank you, Love Books Tour for accepting me on the tour & a massive thank you to Helena M Craggs for a copy of this AWESOME book in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Ila Golden.
Author 13 books28 followers
June 9, 2022
And the adventure continues

Craggs has done an amazing job following on from Shadows & Magic, in this all new adventure with our band of teenaged heroes.

The story balances shifting personal relationships with magical adventures, allowing the teen drama to ground the more fantastical elements.

This is a group of protagonist you want to care about and watch succeed, and I can't wait to see what happens next.
Profile Image for Literary Reviewer.
1,289 reviews103 followers
May 24, 2022
The Youngling gang of supernaturals is back in the second installment of Helena M. Craggs’ series. This time Quinn and his friends are more experienced, more determined, and have even more troubled spirits to clean up after. A wannabe vampire on the loose, stalkerish witches and the pressure cooker of first years of college mean that their break from the supernatural realm has well and truly come to an end.

The Younglings: Fire & Magic picks up from where it left off, continuing the journey of first loves, sexuality, friendship, loyalty and familial unity. The ongoing guidance of demon nanny Mrs. D was the feel-good stability and wisdom that can often lack in the young adult genre.

Narrated predominantly from Quinn’s perspective Helena M. Craggs has done well to maintain his humorous and charismatic character. The addition of storytelling from multiple perspectives created the perfect amount of angst to keep the reader feverishly turning pages and builds upon the logic and reason of characters the reader has already had the opportunity to understand.

The natural progression of the original characters truly shines through in this second installment. Eve and Quinn have matured immensely; tougher and more direct, they set the tone of the novel to be logical and infallible, genuinely growing into the ruling roles so heavily focused on in book one. An outstanding friendship dynamic with purposeful powers and personalities, Craggs has taken her time to evolve relationships through real-life themes young adults face. The romantic subplot solidified this novels place in the workings of a brilliant young adult read.

The Younglings: Fire & Magic is a lighthearted paranormal fantasy that takes young adult readers on an action-filled adventure. The supernatural characters are engaging and will have readers hooked from the start.
Profile Image for Michelle Hunter-Gray.
106 reviews5 followers
June 17, 2022
Thank you to @lovebookstours for my copy of this book.


Ghosts, vampires, demons, witches, what more could a reader ask for? Add in a band of evil witch hunters hunting Millie and a devious vampire determined to capture Eve and you have the makings of a page turning adventure.

Mrs D. Quinn's demon nanny, still provides a solid centre for the gang of teenage Keepers as they navigate the first year of college as well as the supernatural and their relationships. The romance between Quinn and Eve is developed sensitively and realistically. I
Love the bonds of friendship between the main characters and loved all of them.

Ms. Craggs has a delightful writing style that draws you into the story and leaves you wanting more. I thoroughly enjoyed Fire & Magic and couldn't put it down. This has become my favourite series this year and I can hardly wait for the next installment
Profile Image for Nagma (Take A Look At My Bookshelf).
1,712 reviews99 followers
July 8, 2022
I really enjoyed this gripping, paranormal urban fantasy YA sequel to Helena M. Craggs’ The Younglings: Shadows & Magic. This can be read as a standalone as Cragg gives a recap of hte characters. This was an easy read with relatable and likable characters.

This book picks up where Shadows & Magic left off and the romantic relationship between Quin and Eve continues to develop. Like the first book, in this book Craggs’ writing style flowed, and the witty dialogue was perfectly suited to how a college-aged teenager would speak. Cragg has shown the characters having matured while the series progresses, but also maintain some of the group dynamic from the first book.

I loved the suspense, humor, and romance. I can’t wait to see where this series goes next!

Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Profile Image for Lubov Leonova.
Author 5 books137 followers
July 18, 2022
Very engaging read

This story is an absolute page-turner! It was a pleasure to read the continuation of the first story where the characters just got familiar with their power. Here, the characters are around two years older, and they keep mastering their magic. They are getting more familiar with the supernatural World where each creature belongs to a certain ‘race’ (vampires/werewolves/demons/witches).

It is interesting to compare the perception of different generations. There are elders who care only about their race dominance, and a group of Younglings which consists of the representatives of all races and has deeper connections and healthier life values.

In this story, the characters face different obstacles and have to solve multiple problems, including personal issues, working together.
Profile Image for Staceywh_17.
3,684 reviews12 followers
July 14, 2022
I've waited so long to read this and it was so worth the wait. The second in The Younglings series, Fire and Magic continues seamlessly from book one, drawing us back into the wonderful worlds that Helena has created.

We get to meet all the characters we fell in love with from book one, I for one enjoy seeing their development as the series furthers.

The book is full of action and is a highly enjoyable YA fantasy which can be enjoyed by any age.

Beautifully written, the story so immersive, compelling and magical.

I'm so excited for the third in the series already 💜

Many thanks to Love Books Tours for my tour spot.

Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Profile Image for Jupiter Rose.
Author 30 books55 followers
June 5, 2022
I loved book one. The author is talented, and her words play like a movie in my head. I was excited to read book two. It kept me enthralled with witch hunters chasing Millie and a group of vampires hunting Eve. Whatever this group encounters, the bonds of friendship hold them together and keep them strong. I love the suspense, humour and romance. I recommend this Helena M Cragg.
Profile Image for Jade Adams.
69 reviews1 follower
May 30, 2022
I am so glad I picked the first book to read last year as I've fallen in love with this series and was eagerly awaiting book 2 coming out and was VERY glad to see at the end of book 2 there will be a book 3!

I loved seeing how Quinn, Eve and their friends had grown since the last book now they are all at College and seeing all their teenage angst  and the new supernaturals they meet and challenges they face - a group of witch hunters after their powerful friend Millie and a group of vampires who are after Eve for her angel blood!

Really well written again by Helena. Truly feel invested in the story and the characters. This is one I could definitely see my daughter enjoying in a few years when she's a bit older. Totally gives me Buffy/Sabrina vibes with the teenage friend group fighting the big bad.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ loved it
Profile Image for E.P. Stavs.
Author 14 books112 followers
May 30, 2022
If you enjoyed the first book book in the series, then I have no doubt you'll like this one, as well. The entire gang is back and in fine form, with a wonderfully diverse collection of characters. They're like a modern and way hotter Scooby squad. The writing continues to be my favorite part, crisp and to the point with dialogue that is actually believable for teens/young adults. I'm not sure if this book is considered YA or not - there are some steamier scenes but nothing explicit, and they felt natural for the characters involved. Overall, an enjoyable read. Would recommend!

I was given an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Barbara  Daniels Dena.
627 reviews29 followers
July 11, 2022
Entertaining and daring teenagers!

For many of us readers, this novel, as was Helena's first novel is a trip down memory lane. The events of the teen age years often are memorable and just as often filled with anxiety, fear, and heartbreak. Did I mention mischief? Let us not bypass that little gem. Our author portrays these emotions and events in her book as if she, herself, was living them as she wrote. I so enjoyed the transitional phase from middle teen to young adult as she described the antics of the gang. What could possibly go wrong?Now that this book is written, I wonder if the author might share how to use a portal or shadowing with us? I have several trips in mind and could use a tutoring session. I highly recommend this book to YA and adults alike. It is entertaining and transports us to the world of 'what if' with great fun. Come along for the ride!
Profile Image for Joanna McQueen.
305 reviews12 followers
July 5, 2022
The Younglings: Fire & Magic is the second book in the series and I absolutely loved it. Yes, I’m an old lady reading YA, but why not? Obviously I couldn’t read the fist book - and love it - but not read the next one; that’s just wrong.

So here I am raving about this book too. I love the characters and their teenage ways. But I also admire their supernatural world-saving courage. Who wouldn’t?

The writing - in first person - told by the half-demon Quinn - carries the story well. The plot is a wave of excitement, exhilaration and extreme bravery with a touch of love and romance. It’s fast paced and so much happens I was thrown from one event to another. It’s a ride!

The characters have grown on me these past two books with their teenage - as well as their supernatural - quirks. The interplay between them is typical teenager stuff but it’s witty and charming too.

If your a fan of supernatural stories, with great characters and interesting plots then this series is definitely for you.
Profile Image for Tigs_bookcase.
40 reviews2 followers
July 6, 2022
This is the second book of The Younglings series and the first one I've read. It didn't seem to matter though, there's enough detail in this book, so I didn't feel lost or
confused by not having read Shadows & Magic.

We see teenagers go through trials and tribulations, but ultimately, we witness their personal growth in handling relationships, both good and bad.
I liked the witty style of the book. The characters are very likeable, and Quinn, in particular, I found his POV very funny and typical of boys his age.

There's a lot of supernatural elements to this story that you might assume would be overkill. In fact, it all worked together very well.

This book is an easy, fast-paced, witty, and heartwarming read, packed with demons, angels, ghosts, witches, and more.

Perfect for fans of The Shadow Hunters,
Buffy The Vampire Slayer, The Order etc…

Thank you to Love Books Tours and Helena M Craggs for providing me with a print copy in exchange for my own honest review.
Profile Image for Clairey Stanhope.
125 reviews5 followers
June 28, 2022
Last year I had the absolute pleasure of being on a tour for an unknown book called ‘Younglings’. That book got be hooked line and sinker. It was like Helena went in my head got all my favourite supernaturals and then wrote a book about them. I remember saying to her that I needed the next book like now. That was last year.

Well!!! I waited and waited!! Then was picked to do the book tour for book two. The Younglings, fire and magic. I was so excited and so scared. Book two always has a major hill to climb especially when you adore the first. I will add now if you have not read the first book. Do it now!! However, I think you would be okay just reading book two. Personally I think you would have a better connection if you read the first.

Helena is an expert in creating books in the just one more page, I’ll just finish the chapter, oops I just finished the book. This is the second book I have had a book hangover with from Helena. But both were 100% worth it.

I loved being back with the gang again, Quinn is my fav and Eve is just awesome. These characters are honestly in my heart to stay much like ‘Angel’ and charmed sisters all those years later. Helena has me wanting never to come out of her world. I want to know everything and the fact my favourite act is in the bed of the book I feel in love all over again. Yes, this is a gushing review because I adore this series. It’s up with my favourite reads ‘from blood and Ash’ ‘discovery of witches’ and ‘true blood’ for me.

If you have not read this series, I highly recommend it. Just don’t blame me for the book hangover.
Profile Image for Read, Read, No Sleep, Repeat.
339 reviews8 followers
June 17, 2022
I read and adored the first book in the Younglings series last year, so I was excited to get my hands on the sequel and learn more about what Quinn and the gang have been getting up to. I definitely wasn’t disappointed! So what’s it about?
 
The story follows half demon Quinn and his gang of fellow ‘Younglings’, a supernatural crime fighting scooby gang made up of a half angel, a witch, a dhampir, a wolf shifter and a ghost. Having survived the misadventures of the first book, this novel sees the Younglings harnessing their powers, solving paranormal crimes, fighting off witch hunters, and evading vampires hell bent on getting Eve’s angel blood. On top of this, the gang are juggling college, relationships, mean girls and teenage drama!
 
This was such a fun read! There was never a dull moment with Quinn and the gang, and I loved how relatable they were as teenagers, despite their powers. The book is expertly narrated from Quinn’s point of view, as if he’s speaking directly to the reader. He’s a real sweetheart who would’ve sent my teenage self’s heart a-flutter, even if I did want to give him a shake on a few occasions with his obliviousness in his relationship with Eve.

I really liked how Quinn and the other male characters were strong both physically and emotionally, but weren’t afraid to show their vulnerability on occasion. This is a pleasant change from the often stereotypically ‘manly’ male fictional characters. I also enjoyed the diversity of the characters in the book, and as I read this during Pride month, it was great to see good representation for LGBT characters.  
 
It was lovely catching up with the rest of the gang and seeing how their friendships and relationships are flourishing. I really enjoyed the ‘found family’ bond they have all formed and the part their parents (supernatural and otherwise) play in their lives by welcoming all of the children into their families. Without giving any spoilers, there are some new and intriguing additions to the group, and I can’t wait to learn more about them in book three.
 
The book ended with a satisfying finale, so we’re not left on a cliff edge until book 3 thankfully (!), but the epilogue whetted my appetite for the third installation that is out next year.
 
The Younglings: Fire & Magic is crammed full of fabulously diverse characters, drama, intrigue, excitement, cool magic with a sprinkle of teenage angst and I’d recommend it to all YA readers.
2 reviews1 follower
July 6, 2022
A cracking read
If you love the paranormal and supernatural, then Fire & Magic is a must read! I loved book 1, Shadows & Magic, but this sequel is even better. The Younglings are like an up to date, sexy, Scooby squad. The plot is action packed and adventurous, and I love the witty one liners and the sprinkling of romance, too. It’s good to see the crew mature and their bonds of friendship tighten. There’s a few surprises in there, and the ending is clever, leaving it open to the next in the series. Hurry up Ms Craggs because I can’t wait!!
Profile Image for The Difference Engine.
112 reviews5 followers
June 22, 2022
#️⃣ 2022 Tour Number: 19
#️⃣ 2022 Books Read: 47/30
🌟 Rating: 📓📙📘📗📚 (5/5⭐)
🔲 Book Title: The Younglings: Fire & Magic
🖋️ Author: Helena M. Craggs @craggshm
🎭 Genre: YA Urban/Paranormal Fantasy
📚 Format: Softback 🤓📙
📢 Tour: @lovebookstours

Thank you @craggshm for the gifted copy of your book 😍📗 and all the amazing goodies 🍫🍪☕💝

🤓📖 Shameless plug.... Check out my feed for a review of Book One - Shadow & Magic 👥🧙‍♀️

Before I begin my review.... Oh my gosh😍, I love this book 🥰 so much, it's a real page turner and I couldn't put it down.

🎨 Artwork
As with the first book, the cover was beautifully created and pulls together key elements of the book.

✒️ Style
I really enjoy the authors writing style, I don't know how Helena does it but this book drew me in. Throughout I just wanted to know what was coming next, where the plot of going and what would happen to the characters next.

🔑 This book definately has something for everyone in it. So if YA or Fantasy wouldn't normally be your thing, definately give this book a try. The book builds on book one but certainly would work well as a standalone too.

👪 Characters
It was fantastic to see the relationships in book one develop as the characters grew in to their college years. I love how characters are relatable and depth of their connection with each other.

📈 Plot
Quinn, Eve and their family of supernatural misfits continue their magical adventures. Fighting against elder vampires and witch hunters whilst trying to protect the mortal realm keeps the characters very busy.

🤓 Read more
Absolutely, I can't wait for book 3.... I pray to the ARC god's I get on the next tour.
Profile Image for A.C. Merkel.
Author 17 books63 followers
July 27, 2022
Did someone say FIRE? 🔥 and Magic?
All the things you loved about the first return along with more time with Miguel an unexpected turn for Natasha. More younglings??? Yes. Also loved the name of the head witch hunter! If you loved BUFFY you’ll dig this. The Netflix announcement must be coming soon… right?? RIGHT??
The ending is perfect to end a season on!
Profile Image for Tiffeny Brown.
212 reviews6 followers
June 15, 2022
This is the second book in The Younglings series. I haven't read the first one, but this seems to work fine as a standalone.

I got into this YA/fantasy straight away. It's character driven and every single character is so well written. I honestly feel like I know the group of teenagers known as 'the keepers' really well. I definitely wanted them to succeed from the start!

The plot was fantastic. There are plenty of magical adventures for the teenage heroes. I also enjoyed seeing the personal relationships developing within the group, particularly that of Quinn and Eve.

If you love fantasy you should definitely give this a read. Vampires, ghosts, witches, angels, demons and wolves - this book has it all!

Can't wait for the third in the series to come out next year!
366 reviews14 followers
June 16, 2022
The Younglings Fire & Magic by Helena M Craggs

5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"My beautiful angel; her adoring demon"

I was incredibly excited to get the opportunity to read the second book in this new YA series. I was looking forward to a return to Quinn, Eve and their gang of supernatural misfits.

Even if you haven't read the first book you will be able to enjoy this one as the book begins with a character recap, explaining who everyone is. This was also helpful to me as a refresher of who is who.

On the surface it may seem that Quinn is leading an ordinary teenage life. He's dealing with college work and first love. This normality might sound boring but Quinn is glad for the respite. But soon enough it's time for a break for this normal teenage life as paranormal worries take over.

A group of elder vampires are out for Eve's blood, they are attracted to the angel part of her. Plus Millie is being staked by witch hunters. To keep everyone safe, Quinn is going to need the help of all of the Keepers. The vampires, witches, ghosts and mortals all need to protect their own and of course with help from Quinn's demon Dad too.

If that wasn't bad enough, Quinn's demon side makes his relationship with Eve dangerous. He feels an all encompassing and obsessive love for her. Eve is going to have some trouble with her "grumpy demon" as she lovingly calls him.

Who ever said being a teenager was easy?

I've enjoyed this book just as much as the first. The plot was exciting and I enjoyed Quinn's charming wit and sarcasm again. The dynamic between the characters keeps the story fun and the fast pace kept me engaged throughout.

The only problem with Helena's writing is that it always leaves me craving more! The Younglings is now one of my favourite YA fantasy series. I hope there are more to come.
Profile Image for Leanne J.
289 reviews3 followers
June 24, 2022
This is book 2 of The Younglings series. I loved book 1 so was really pleased to get on the tour for this one.

The cover. I just love it. It follows the theme of book 1 and stands out.

The story. It was great to see how the diverse supernatural characters had developed and continued to do so. Their powers and their relationships, old and new. And they get stuck in to any challenge. Quinn is still my favourite. I imagine a beautiful half demon and yeah…

The author easily drew me back in to their world with her writing and kept me reading until I had finished it. I made me want to be there. I want to go to his dads mansion and travel via a portal. It was well written and engaging.

If you like fantasy with a wide range of supernaturals (demons, angels, witches, vampires, dhampirs and werewolves) and YA then you’ll enjoy this series.

Thank you to @craggshm and @lovebookstours for the gifted review copy.
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862 reviews59 followers
July 6, 2022
This is the second book in The Younglings series. Half demon Quinn, half Angel Eve, Eloise the ghost, witch Millie, half vampire Leo and mortal Harry are back. They are collectively known as the spook crew or the Keepers who protect innocents from the mortal world from supernatural threats. When we catch up with the group Carter and Eve are now dating as are Millie and Harry. Leo is now dating Miguel who is a Lupus-Sapien (he can change into a giant wolf). Lupus-Sapiens are the enemies of vampires but in the case of Leo and Miguel love has overcome their differences. As the identity of the Keepers becomes well known in the supernatural community new threats arise in the form of witch hunters who are trying to capture Millie and vampires who are trying to capture Eve. It’s certainly going to be a busy time for the spook crew.

The Spooky Scooby Gang (as I’ve nicknamed them) are back and I’ve been looking forward to reading this book since I read the first. It’s bad enough that the spook crew have to deal with the fact that their teenagers and everything that goes with growing up and their college work but they also have to deal with supernatural threats to mortals and also threats to their own members. At the same time Quinn’s powers are developing significantly and we see this at the start of the book when he meets a ghost called Leah who came to an unnatural end and he helps her to find justice. He is also spending more time with his father and truly embracing the demon side of his heritage. This definitely felt like a more grown-up book than the first especially the storyline and character development. The author has done a brilliant job with the storyline and the characters have grown with the same. The story was action packed full of great fighting scenes which were gory at times. I loved how the characters used enchanted crystals as communicators. It was like a supernatural version of a mobile phone. I also wish I could shadow like them so that I could instantly be in another place. It was nice to catch up with the main characters but also to be introduced to new characters such as the Eve’s mother and Natasha, Leo’s sister. The new characters easily slotted into the story and it just felt like they’d always been there. As the story progressed towards the end it appeared that everything had been resolved and then just as the book was about to finish a new threat to The Younglings appeared which was very unexpected but I am super excited to see where this new angle takes the story and characters. I can’t wait until 2023 for the next instalment.

A must read for anyone who loves fantasy novels where the main characters have extraordinary powers.
Profile Image for Michele Quirke.
Author 2 books137 followers
June 7, 2022
The Younglings: Fire & Magic is a fantastic sequel that does its predecessor proud! It was so fun being with the crew again! As always, I love how diverse the friend group is. A demon, angel, werewolf, half-vampire, witch, and ghost?! Plus there's LGBTQ+ rep, which is perfect.

If you like YA fantasy, this book is for you. Not only do the characters have to juggle typical parts of life like college, pool parties, movie nights, break-ups, and sorrow over said break-ups, but they do it all while catching murderers, dealing with antagonistic demons, being hunted by witch hunters, and fighting combat vampires! This book is fast-paced and full of action.

But my favorite thing about The Younglings 2 is the dialogue. It's so natural and totally accurate for the age group of the characters. I'd have to say favorite character is either Eloise, the ghost, or Millie, the witch. Speaking of Millie, there was quite a huge twist at the end about her and I'm eager to see what book 3 brings!!

~I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review

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