After that jaw dropping cliffhanger in Where Dreams Descend, couldn't wait to read this book. Not only to be captivated once again by the magical, beautiful and intriguing world Janella created, but also to find out what happened when Kallia got sucked into that mirror--and how Demarco was going to find her!

I felt like the book started out a bit slow and the plot twist surrounding one of the characters was a bit predictable but this book did not disappoint in any way. New characters with some plot twists, old characters you thought you hated but realized you may not hate them so much, beautiful reunions, sacrifices, higher stakes, all mixed together to create a captivating and satisfying conclusion.

This I truly one of my favorite series and I am excited to read more of this author's work in the future!

Thank you, St. Martins Press and NetGalley, for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I was so excited to read this book, and it did not disappoint. I had to read the first book of the Kingdom of Card duology because the story picked up from where Jack and Kallia left off to the world beyond the mirror.

The start was a bit slow, but soon the pace picked up, and the book was an enjoyable read. The twists and turns were a lot, and the description was vivid. The world-building was impressive.

The characters felt so real, and I could relate to most of them. I loved Kallia; she was a strong protagonist. The slow-burn romance paired well with the magic in this remarkable book.

I loved the writing style; the author did an excellent job capturing my attention with her beautiful writing.

Overall, I enjoyed reading this book and I recommend it to every one who likes Fantasy stories with slow-burn romance.

2.5 stars

SOMETHING BROKE.

I am struggling with duologies lately. It’s like every time I go into the second book it feels way too dragged out as if there wasn’t enough plot for an entire new novel. I would rather read longer standalone fantasies than muddle through 75% of a book to get to the ending.

I wanted to love this, the beginning picked up almost right after the ending of the first book. Things got moving and I saw where things were going. My satisfaction dropped off when I realized how slow the pace was. I hate when a relationship is set up and confirmed in book one, then the couple doesn’t see each other again until 80% of the way through the last book. Where is the rest of the chemistry and romance?!

There was too much information thrown into this one. An entirely new cast with new relationships and villains. A dynamic that didn’t match all of the cast from the first book. Why couldn’t they have taken more center stage? [As you can see, I have many questions on the choices here]. By the time the ending rolled around I was through with it all. It was a bit confusing and with the devils at play I’m still not quite sure what happened.

I just missed the overall vibes that I felt with the first book. A lot fell flat. It’s an interesting world and I adore the magician set-up. The characters were initially great and I’ll hold on to what I liked about them in the beginning. I’m curious to see what books this author has next and hope to give those a chance.

Overall audience notes:

YA Fantasy
Language: a little strong
Romance: kisses to closed door scene
Violence: physical altercations, magical attacks and illusions

**Review will be published on my site/Instagram Sept. 28th, 2021**

Thank you to the publisher for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The sequel to Where Dreams Descend, we continue the mystery of Kallia and Demarco. In Where Dreams Descend, Kallia enters a magic competition being the only female magician, and a powerful one. She dreams of people chanting her name, but females magicians are thought to be bad luck, and bad luck she finds. Demarco, who has suffered a great tragedy, signs up to be a judge in the magic competition in hopes of solving the mystery of his missing assistant.

Where Dreams Descend had such a beautiful, haunted, and atmospheric setting and I loved that was continued in this book. The writing remains beautiful, and while exciting events happen throughout the book, it just wasn’t as exciting as I had hoped it would be. I found myself forcing myself to read rather than being enraptured in the book. I still liked it and would definitely recommend to those who enjoy books with circus/magician settings!

I’ve been curious about this sequel ever since the first book ended. Although the first book wasn’t a favorite, I was still interested in the characters and the journey they would be taking. I did like some aspects of this book and thought it somewhat wrapped up but I still feel like I have a lot of questions about what I read. I’m going to keep this review short and sweet so here we go!

The book is told from multiple point-of-views. This was a good thing to have since Kallia is somewhere else that Daron isn’t. It helped to bridge the gaps and try to make sense of what was happening and how things would be fixed for them to be reunited once again.

When it came to the characters, I personally liked Kallia more in book one. The characters fell a bit flat and I really wish there would have been more from Jack. I’m disappointed that he basically got shafted. I still don’t really believe the romance between Kallia and Daron. I don’t think there was enough development.

One thing I am curious about is the added language. I don’t remember there being any swear words used in book one and so they caught me off guard in this book. Maybe that’s just a me thing?

This book was utterly too long! Some of the things could have been left out while other things needed to be expanded on more. I had a hard time with the setting for this one.

Overall, it was good book in ways and it wasn’t all bad. I feel like it’s hard to truly pinpoint the big problem but I did manage to list some smaller ones. I do think that readers who enjoyed the first book more than me may find this one more fascinating as well. I still love the covers for this duology though!

First I would like to say how much I love janella’s writing and how I can see her potential and skill coming off the page from this duology. That being said let’s get into this review.

Okay the first thing I want to talk about was the pacing of this book, at least the first half was a lot slower than I anticipated for this book. Mostly going off now I devoured book one in a whole day and everything was Bam. Bam. Bam. Here it felt very slowed down, but I pushed through and I’m so glad that I did.

The character growth was absolutely amazing, I was particularly obsessed with Jack’s story arc. He changed so much, he was my favorite in book one and it definitely transferred to book two. Jack and Kallia’s relationship changed so much too , even though I was big shipper of them I love where their story left off and I mean her and Daron are just too sweet to compare to anything else.

I loved how janella continued the world into the mirrors and just how complex it was, definitely a duology I think everyone should read and want to read.

The only thing I wish was Daron and Kallia’s story to not be rushed in the last 30%, I really wanted more of them together so I could really feel that angst that was portrayed. Other than that I loved this book.

Also, I know things can change between this arc and final copies. So please give it a read, I know I’ll be rereading.

Where Dreams Descend was one of my favorite books last year. It was an absolute page-turner that I couldn't put down, so ever since finishing that book, I was waiting with bated breath for the conclusion to its duology! And this book came in with so many surprises and twists that I didn't see coming. I absolutely couldn't predict which way this book would go, and some of the characters surprised me as well (in a good way)! I just came to love Kallia (and Demarco) even more. I even enjoyed getting to know Jack more, which is something I never thought I'd say. I do wish we would have been able to see the re-union between Kallia and Demarco much earlier, but that's my only complaint really.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to St. Martins Press for providing me this arc via Netgalley!
This was one of the arcs I was most excited to receive and it did not disappoint. This book confirmed what the first one suggested, that this is one of my favorite duologys of all time.
The introduction of a brand new world, as well as new characters was very smooth and the twists kept on coming.
The revelation that Vain was Eva was kind of predictable, but I still enjoyed it. I loved her friendship with Kallia and the interactions with her brother.
Speaking of Demarco, I loved his character in this sequel just as I had in the first book. His relationship with Kallia was still amazing and I loved seeing him give up on his magic.
I hated Jack on the first book but here he really confused me - props to the author for that. I loved getting to know more about his past and realizing his other side (still very team Demarco, tho).
The only thing I was sorry for in this book was not seeing more of Aaros, I missed him.
In conclusion, I loved this book, and this duology in general, and really recommended everyone getting their hands on this.
Keep em coming Janella.

When Night Breaks is an epic conclusion to the duology! I personally enjoyed this one more than Where Dreams Descend. We pick up where we left off at the end of Where Dreams Descend and the magic in this book was awesome, I loved the characters and how the story wrapped up.

2.5 stars. I wish I could put my finger on exactly why I was so let down by this, but I can’t really. I struggled to connect with the plot throughout this finale. The first 70% felt very slow and uninteresting. I think there was just too much new information thrown at me, it was hard to understand the mechanics of the new setting, and the characters and relationships I loved so much in WDD were either very limited or different. The only new character I felt a connection to was Vain, and that still wasn’t very much. Plus I really thought I would be getting more from Jack. I found the final showdown to be very confusing and I’m still not entirely sure what happened and how it all works. And the ending just fell flat. Overall, just did not live up to my excitement and I’m sad that I didn’t enjoy this as much as I was hoping. Will still look out for this author’s books in the future.

3.5 stars
I wasn't to into the first book. And it's beennso long since I read it that I couldn't really.get into this one. Maybe I would like it better as a duology that I would binge read.
It picks up right after the first book.
Kallia must figure out her place in the new world she's in and learn the answers of her magic.
Demarco is trying to find kallia and his sister.
Jack is still someone you don't know if you can trust.

When Night Breaks is an intense and immersive conclusion to the Kingdom of Card duology! The story picks up where Where Dreams Descend left off with Kallia and Jack in a world beyond the mirror they fell through. An alternate version of Glorian, Kallia and Jack face stakes that, if possible, are even higher than the first book. In the meantime, Demarco remains in Glorian frantically searching for any clues to Kallia’s whereabouts as Kallia tries to survive in her new surroundings and find a way home.

The story is captivating and immersive and so vivid. I love the author’s writing style and how quickly the story pulls you in. This is a unique world of magic, wonder, and danger, and the shows, the magic, and the fanfare are dazzling, vividly described, and easy to imagine. Everything is larger than life and glamorous and heightened, but nothing is as it seems. This concept of illusion versus reality is fascinatingly explored throughout the story, especially considering how much these lines blur. Kallia can’t trust anything or anyone, even the man she came through the mirror with.

I love that Jack’s character was expanded on in this book because I was so intrigued by him in the first book. Why does he try to confine Kallia? Is he good or bad? What are his true motives? This book delves more into his past, his connection to Kallia, his motives, and more. I like that he is so morally grey, and you never know if you should love or loathe him (though, I admit I LOVE him!!). His story is fantastic, as is Kallia’s.

Kallia is a great protagonist, and she goes through so much in this duology. I love her strength and grit and the way she faces her troubles head-on. Kallia is a survivor, and she is sharp, astute, and a bit cunning. These traits come in handy in this alternate world where competition is fierce and deadly, magic is incomparable, and deception is at an all-time high. Her character arc is so well done, and I enjoyed her growth throughout the duology.

We are introduced to many new characters in this alternate world, each mysterious and full of secrets. I thought I’d be disappointed that some of my favorite minor characters from the first book didn’t have bigger roles in this book (they’re in the book, just not a ton), but the new characters made up for it. Kallia and Jack meet some intriguing people in the alternate Glorian, and I enjoyed learning more about them, how they got there, and their roles in the story. Happily, has a large role in the story even though he is not with Kallia.

The story switches from Kallia to Demarco’s experiences, so you learn a lot about what happens after the debacle in Glorian. Demarco, who is still in Glorian, is relentless in his search for Kallia, and I love that he never gives up on her. His journey to find out more about Glorian, its history, and its connection to Kallia’s disappearance is so intriguing, and Demarco quickly learns that there are some secrets that powerful people don’t want revealed. Demarco’s journey is dangerous, but his love for Kallia fuels him.

Finally, I want to mention the author’s skillful use of symbols, imagery, and foreshadowing throughout the book, all of which add to the suspense and intrigue. Mirrors, in particular, are a strong symbol in the duology, and the imagery brings the setting alive. If I were still an English teacher, I would totally use passages of this book to teach these literary elements and show how much they add to the story.

I’m so thankful to NetGalley and Wednesday books for giving me an advanced copy of the book in exchange for my honest review. This was one of my most aniticipated reads of the year, and I really enjoyed it.

Thank you so much netgalley for providing an arc!!

When Night Breaks” is the perfectly captivating and imaginative sequel to Janella Angeles’s debut “Kingdom of Cards” duology. With endless descriptions of extraordinary marvels such as magician’s tricks and illusions, jaw-dropping performances, and baroque, flashy fashion; and I was easily immersed into the new mirror version of Glorian that Kallia and Jack come across on the other side of the mirror they fell through. Questions are answered, but also lead to more questions as Kallia navigates this new world full of talented magicians and an untrustworthy ruler and as Demarco works to find his way to get Kallia back.

Also, I am in awe of the writing, the world and the characters the author has created,
I really like the worldbuilding, and how the author had created a world that has the capability of making us vicariously live through it.
The magic and romance pair so well together in this finale, I wish it would never end.

I received an e-arc of When Night Breaks by Janella Angeles from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked Where Dreams Descend when I read it last year. I would recommend re-reading the first book or reading a recap before going into When Night Breaks,I didn't reread and found I forgot a lot of details which took away from my enjoyment of the story.
When Night Breaks follows the aftermath of the events of Where Dreams Descend and concludes the duology.
I was here for the slow burn romance and mutual pining between the love interests, but I felt that maybe the slow burn was a little too slow in this book. The magic system and circus atmosphere were amazing, and I think fans of Caraval will definitely have fun with this series.
3/5 stars.

#WhenNightBreaks #NetGalley #Edelweiss
An excellent follow up. The story picks right up where it left off. I really enjoy the characters and setting from these novels.

I enjoyed reading this book. I thought the characters were well developed and the plot moved at a pace that felt appropriate. I would like to read other books by this author in the future.

Where Dreams Descend was full of mystery and magic. Thankfully When Night Breaks picks up pretty close to right where the last one left off and starts working to unfold their world and answering my questions from book 1. I found book 1 to be on the slower side, but that is not true for book 2. This douology truely is one continuous story and deserves to be read together.

When Night Breaks continues to follow Kallia, Jack, and Daron, but with a lot more Daron (yay!!).

Moving away from the competition angle the story still kept the vibe of marvellous showmanship that I loved about the first book.

When Night breaks the exciting waited sequel to when Dreams Descend. It left off on a hook of an ending from when Dreams descend. When Kallia is taken away from the spectalore. Some could say kidnapped through mirrors. So Kallia's mentor Daron Demarco hunts for her with Lottie a news reporter and he just can't seem to find her. Rumors come around and soon mysterious things are happening. Meanwhile someone named Jack walked back into Kallia's life. From the Mirror's who knows. Soon finds out that life is very different where she ended up. Big question where did she end up? Why is it different. Surprises await and of course magic awaits. New characters arrive Vain, Malice, Ruthless, Roth and more... More visuals and more interest on where Kallia ended up.

This is a duology and it is amazing the hype from what I expected after the first book is just as amazing.

Given to me by netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Wow being back in this magical world was absolutely breathtaking. The way this is written brings the words to life around you. We meet some amazing new characters that you can’t help but love. It was so hard to figure out who I love more Demarco or Jack…Kallia is once again lost and trying to figure out how to overcome all that is thrown her way and save those she loves. While I feel there were still a few questions after reading this, I think this sequel is one of the best sequels I have had the pleasure of reading.

If you like Stephanie Garber and Laini Taylor than I believe you will love this series

Where Dreams Descend was a well-written magical story and I was so excited to get to read an arc of When Night Breaks! The sequel picks up where the first book ended. After the competition ends in a disaster, Daron's main priority is to find Kallia, the contestant he fell for, and goes on a dangerous journey to find her. For Kallia, she is feeling lost in a mirrored world of Glorian and must navigate with Jack, who has the answers but cannot always be trusted. The beginning was a little slow for me but I overall enjoyed the story! This was a beautiful conclusion to the Kingdom of Cards duology and I can't wait to see what Janella Angeles writes next!

Thank you NetGalley and Wednesday Books for an arc of this book!