How to See in the Dark

Hard Way Home #2

by Lilith Frost

In this explosive sequel to Lilith Frost’s groundbreaking debut novel Trials on the Hard Way Home , Bryan, now James, must undertake a harrowing journey into his past amidst the treacherous landscape of an apocalyptic America.

James must do whatever it takes to continue protecting a lifetime of secrets—secrets that first led him to his new life and have since made him the target of nefarious plots. In the harsh realities of home, supernatural dangers lurk around every corner, and nothing is quite what it seems in the dark. James must contend with the horrors of his youth and his decision to abandon a brighter future with the men he loved, all while struggling to survive against human treachery and creatures of the night.

Reconnected with family and a lost love he never thought he would see again, the past and present collide in this thrilling and heart-wrenching mystery that breathes fresh life into the science fiction, LGBTQ+, and fantasy genres.

How to See in the Dark is an exciting and poignant story in which one man must face the traumas of his youth, navigate the challenges of unconventional love, and trust in the loyalty of friends in a world where everyone has a secret to protect.

361 pages, Hardcover

Published September 16, 2021

Reviews

[Justin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was excited to read this after finishing the first in the series, but was not expecting it to be quite so good and engaging. The return to Bryan's home introduces so many new and exciting things—new and fantastic relatable characters, strange communities and cults, and supernatural creatures in a dystopian landscape—all while staying true to Frost's original sci-fi world building. I couldn't put it down and was only disappointed when it ended. This book has gotten me back into sci-fi and I can't wait for the next one.

[Jeanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's been a long time since I was so engrossed in a book I felt frustrated with my day-to-day life because it kept me from reading. I even considered canceling an event, that I bought tickets for and wanted to attend, so I could stay home and read How to See in the Dark! The first book in this series was good. It was orginal, sci-fi, and fun. But How to See in the Dark blew me away! Things I wished were in Trials were explored in this book, mainly the state of America and Bryan/James' past. I find Lilith's view of the future believable, this book was more sexy, and there are more characters to fall in love with. I adore the fantastical elements that were brought to the story: shape shifters, forest creatures, and the fae. I mean, this book has it all! She leaves it on a cliffhanger, and I'm dying to know what's next!

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this one more than the first, because we got to learn about Bryan/James' backstory and explore the interesting new world, people, and creatures emerging from the Split. I also liked the variety of new characters we got to meet in this sequel, each bringing a different depth to Bryan/James. I still would like to see more dialogue in the books, there is too much telling rather than showing.