I enjoyed this read so much more than the first! I felt I could immerse myself more into the pages and connect with the story and the characters! This book is great, I recommend for fantasy lovers and YA book enthusiasts!

Thank you to NetGalley and Scribe Publishing Company for access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

What worked:
The Folktellers are the most powerful characters, although they don’t cast spells or wield super abilities. They travel to different dimensions and times, but their impact comes from their Guidebooks and telling stories. They’re sent on missions to locate people and tell them stories that they need to hear. Their tales are recorded in leather-bound books, and these Guidebooks become the focus of the plot. Shadow People are the Folktellers’ nemeses, although they’re scattered across the dimensions. However, they’ve stolen a Guidebook, and its information might lead them to a portal across all dimensions. Opening the portal will allow them to unite and form a formidable army that will wreak chaos.
The book switches focus between three main characters: Wendy, Aaron, and Jake. Wendy’s primary mission is to protect the portal from the Shadow People, but she’s only recently become a Storyteller. It seems like she understands the gist of it, but much of her learning is on the job. She thinks she’s found a mentor, but that relationship becomes complicated. Eddie Little Bear joins the cast and shares information about Native American culture while helping Wendy navigate the Cave in the Rock. Aaron’s Storytelling character presents a subplot, as he’s struck by a cruel spell that is slowly killing him. Jake searches for the cure but time is running out, as Aaron’s body will succumb to the spell in a matter of days.
The potential within books is a major theme, as the Guidebooks are the powerful tools wielded by the Storytellers. The stories are used to inspire readers and listeners and help them with their problems and everyday lives. Wendy’s book contains many strange-sounding chapters, but there’s always one that fits her situation. Each book is connected to a key that acts as a homing device and opens up new possibilities. The key to Wendy’s Guidebook proves to be a game-changer.
What didn’t work as well:
References are made to events from the first book in the series, but there are still unanswered questions. The Shadow People don’t have distinct physical features, don’t talk, and don’t interact with characters unless they’re attacking. It’s clear they’re dangerous and should be stopped, but they’re vague antagonists. However, this book can still be enjoyed without reading the prior one. It’s not recommended, but it can be done.
The Final Verdict:
Books hold the key to the past and the future. The concept of Folktellers managing books as supernatural tools is novel, although the books themselves are the star of the show. The characters perform the tasks, but the Guidebooks and Transit portal seem to be in control. The overall story is very entertaining, and I’m anxious to read the sequel. I recommend you give this book a shot!

Another gem from Mr. Bastian!
I did prefer having the story focused on the male lead in the first book, rather than on Wendy as in this second installment, but it's a fast-paced and engaging story no matter who's leading it. I'm glad to have discovered these books and to be able to go on the journey along with the Folktellers.
I'm reading these books on my own, through Net Galley, but I think I'll have to introduce my son to them, also. They're enjoyable reads even for an adult, but I do think they'd be better suited for those in the target age range.

This was a much better book than the first in the series and we were glad that we stuck with the series. The children were much more involved in the characters and action.

Three stars!!!!

If you like any of these five things in a book, you should consider picking this one up:
1. The power of storytelling
2. Fast-paced middle grades
3. The multiverse
4. Demonic shadows
5. Cross-cultural storytelling

Before I jump into my review any further, I have to state the following:
- I cannot speak on some of the representation in this book. There are several indigenous characters featured in this book. I suggest seeking some own voices reviews!
- This is the continuation of a series. I HAVE read the first book in the series. I rated it a 2.5.

When I picked up this book, I was excited to find that this second book nailed some of the things that I wanted from it that I mentioned in my review of the first book! Specifically, I asked for more Wendy. This book followed Wendy as the main character. The characters from the last book also played prominent roles but the point is that I GOT MORE WENDY!!!!!

This second book definitely elevates the series, it's a strong addition. If you were at all unsure about the first one, I definitely think the second is a bit stronger. Overall, I think kids would have fun with this series.! The pacing, especially at the end, was better in this book. We got introduced to a slightly more diverse set of characters. There were discussions of different regions and belief systems; characters did a great job of emphasizing the importance of respect when it comes to different beliefs. I'm glad I gave this second one a try!

This was a fantastic middle grade fantasy novel that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys fairy-tales reimagined in a creative and modern way. This book would be perfect for anyone who enjoyed Percy Jackson, A Series of Unfortunate Events, or the Lunar Chronicles.