A bit long but still enjoyed!!!
The stunning sequel to House of Marionne, and BOY are the stakes high!!! I loved the unraveling of the plot in this book. We have multiple povs in this book which was fun.

-strong fmc
-lovers turned enemies
-multiple povs
-political and magical intrigue
-drama!! You can't trust anyone in this book!!

I'm so ready for book three!!! I have so many things I need answered asap.

I so excited when book 2 of the "House of Marionne" series was announced! I really enjoyed book 1. I was happy to be brought back into the world of dark academica by J. Elle.

I really enjoy Quell's tenacity and refusal to back down or quit. She is super headstrong which gets her into trouble, well, a lot of the time but I love her determination.

I found myself getting confused or lost in many parts of this book. I felt like there was so much to remember and which characters have what magic / who has dark magic and who doesn't, etc. It made the experience harder to enjoy for sure.

I gave this book 3 stars for settings, but it was hard to follow at times. Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Group for this eARC.

I regret that I didn't give myself time to reread House of Marionne before jumping back into this one, because it started pretty fast! Mostly I was confused about Red - had I met her before? She was the blank spot, though I remembered the luncheon with Nore. Quell had such a journey and growth before, that coming back to find her so sure of her Toushana, and her bond with her magic was a great starting point.

I really enjoyed the magic system the first time around, and that got built on so well. The way the Draguns - the enforcers, tracked with keeping any dark wielders from endangering their people, as well as keeping magic a secret from the unmarked - worked as a force, the inside of their ranking system. What they knew about the damage to the orb, and where their priorities lay. How Quell could learn from an ex-Dragun, and eventually where her journey in learning as much as she can about her magic and her search for her mother leads her to place herself in the hands of another House.

The house systems as they've been known are faltering, and those with power will do their best to hold onto it. With the cracks in the orb - and the danger of all magic disappearing if it empties completely - everyone has their own agenda. Alliances are tenuously formed and broken.

I felt the sequel moved at a faster pace than the first book, and the different points of view provided important glimpses to keep things moving in tandem. Romance is definitely a low priority, so if you were hoping for a quick reconciliation between characters, be prepared for a bit more of a wait.

I am so excited to see how everything concludes, though I will definitely be doing a refreshing re-read of these two before diving in. These would definitely benefit from being fresh in the mind before the final outcome.

Shadows of Perl was a fantastic second book in this series. I actually enjoyed it a lot more than book one. The world building and character development was enriched even more and I was able to become fully enveloped in this world.

Shadows of Perl picks up right after the events of House of Marionne. Quell has bound with her toushana, or dark magic, and revealed her grandmother’s heinous acts. She is welcomed to House of Perl, where she is embraced for who she is. She’s also there because she found a lead that said her mom had stayed at House of Perl recently. While searching for clues to her mom’s whereabouts, Quell uncovers secrets of the headmistress of Perl that could threaten the world.

This book also follows Jordan Wexton, and his quest to protect the Sphere. He’s also looking for Quell because he believes she’s the biggest threat to the Sphere. In his quest, Jordan begins to start seeing things in a different light and he starts to question all of his beliefs.

We also get to see the pov of Nore from House Ambrose. Her parts are more sporadic, but are just as entertaining as Quell and Jordan’s. There is an interesting revelation with her story that I think most people will enjoy.

Shadows of Perl, in my opinion does not suffer from second book syndrome. It built upon the strong foundation of book one and improved. The characters were easier to root for in this book, and the stakes were definitely raised. I cannot wait so see what happens next.

Shadows of Perl by J. Elle is a captivating fantasy that draws readers into a richly woven world of magic and intrigue. The story follows a young heroine who must confront her past and navigate the challenges of loyalty, friendship, and self-discovery. J. Elle’s vivid writing brings the characters and settings to life, while the intricate plot keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Themes of empowerment and resilience resonate throughout, making it a compelling read for anyone who enjoys a blend of adventure and fantasy.

I'm afraid this book hit the sequel slump for me. I loved book one so much, and I felt like this one was too whirlwind to keep up with. I thought all the big moments lacked depth and the reveals didn't really feel monumental. I also felt like a lot of information was added but also not enough at the same time. I liked Quell and I still felt her strong presence as a character, but she was also a little all over the place. Jordan, on the other hand, was unlikable in this installment. I found him grating and so uptight that it was annoying to read the chapters from his point of view. This is one of those books where I feel like I won't be able to remember much of the plot because of how jumpy it was. I liked Nore Ambrose, and her chapters were exciting and different. Overall, this just wasn't my favorite, but I'm curious to see how the series will end. Thank you to Penguin Teen for an e-ARC to read and review!

Quell Marionne is back! After laying claim to her destructive magic, toushana, at the end of book one, she's now determined to reunite with her mother and get the heck out of Dodge, so to speak, with the help of Octos, the trader she trusts, and her friends, Abby and Mynick. However, she soon finds that Octos and Mynick are both hiding secrets - ones that are incompatible to her goals. So she turns to the Headmistress of the House of Perl for help. But when she flees to Hartsboro, the House of Perl estate, she finds that while no one judges her for her toushana, they on the contrary seem obsessed by it. And there are dark secrets to find in this house that almost seems to worship dark magic...
At the same time, Jordan has graduated and joined the Dragun brotherhood. He's so successful, in fact, that the current Dragunhead has chosen him as his second-in-command, the Dragunheart. But Jordan is still battling with his feelings for Quell, the girl who betrayed him. Part of him wants her dead, but part of him knows that even now, he can't hate the girl who has stolen his heart. He has to decide if love of Quell or duty to the Order will win the day.

This book was very fast-paced and action-packed compared to the first book. I did enjoy the continuation of Quell's story, and I liked the addition of Jordan as a second POV. The way they reacted to each other and around each other felt like it would be natural for two people who had a relationship that ended in spectacular fashion, but really still have feelings for each other that they can't deny, pulling at him. Most enemies to lovers (or in this case, lovers to enemies) stories suffer from this trope where they seem to have to spend the whole second book hating each other and not acknowledging that they have any feelings at all, which given how strong feelings like love can be, has never felt realistic to me. Miss Elle manages to capture that push-pull between Quell and Jordan as they go back and forth between their feelings and their goals.

Book Two expands the magical society we got to see the edges of in "House of Marionne". We get to see new Houses, learn more about Darkbearers and Draguns, and experience some surprising twists while we learn some pretty major secrets. The final battle that it all culminates with would look amazing on film, and I hope I get to see it someday.

I do feel like there were a few terms thrown in that I don't recall from the first book, and they weren't in the glossary, which made things a little confusing, and I'm not overly fond of the use of "ghosts" even though they're used sparingly. I found myself sort-of skimming any parts with them, and I'll probably do the same with book three. Other than that, I don't really have any complaints or nitpicks. I'll be looking forward to everything wrapping up in Book 3. 4 out of 5 stars. Thank you so much to Netgalley, Penguin Group, and J. Elle for the free advanced reader copy. This is a voluntary review. All thoughts and opinions are strictly my own.

This book was a pretty good read. It took me several pages to get into it, but I ended up really enjoying it. At first I was a little confused on the characters, but I would purchase for the library!

Really enjoyed this sequel and was grateful for the opportunity to read it early after participating in the readalong that Penguin Teen led on instagram

Review: Shadows of Perl by J. Elle
Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Shadows of Perl, the sequel to House of Marionne, was a fantastic read that pulled me in from the very first page. J. Elle’s world-building was top-tier, and the rich detail in this book made the magical realms feel so vivid and alive. The character development was one of the highlights for me. Both Quell and Jordan undergo such meaningful growth, coming to terms with their true identities and powers in ways that felt genuine and raw. Watching their journeys unfold was incredibly satisfying.

J. Elle’s writing was beautiful and gripping throughout the story. The emotional depth she brings to her characters is matched only by the suspense and tension she builds, especially with that cliffhanger! I have a bit of anxiety now waiting for the third book—I’m dying to know what will happen next. I’m also rooting hard for Quell and Jordan, and I hope we get to see their relationship develop even further. Their chemistry is undeniable, and I need more of them!

I also want to shout out the audiobook—like the first in the series, it was incredible. The narration brought the world and characters to life in a way that truly enhanced the experience for me.

Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Teen for providing me with an ARC of this book. If you’re a fan of rich world-building, complex characters, and stories that keep you on edge, I highly recommend Shadows of Perl.

4.5/5 Stars
8/10 Cawpile

This deliciously dark sequel is sure to keep you on your toes as you follow Quell on her quest to find her mother. Nothing will stand in her way - including her rigid ex Jordan who is trying to protect the source of magic. In addition to these two main characters, the story also has well developed side characters that I liked learning more about.

This book takes place in the same magical world based in the US, however the story shows us the quirks of the other houses that may include sinister pasts. The author put a lot of thought into the magic system and fun ways to apply magic.

The plot of the book was filled with little twists and turns as well as intense relationships - like lovers to enemies. I enjoyed the dynamics and the tension built throughout the story.

I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a medium paced fantasy series with dark vibes - but be warned that this is the second book in a trilogy and you will not want to wait for the next book. It reminded me a lot of ninth house but a lot less intense.

I would like to thank NetGalley and Razorbill for providing me with an eARC of the book. All opinions are my own.

I thought this was a great follow-up to HOUSE OF MARIONNE. I didn't expect the addition of the new POVs, but they really deepened the world for me. I can't wait to see how this series ends.

I freaking loved this sequel. Quell is growing into her own and trying to figure out how to be the best person she can be. Jordan is so confused with who he's supposed to be and who he's been groomed to be. I can't wait for more stories in this series.

It took me entirely way too long to finish this book and all I can say is meh. The first book was a lot better, there was just so many different stories going in this one. It ended on a cliff hanger so I can only assume there will be another book which I will probably read but was unfortunately pretty disappointed in this one.

Thank you NetGalley and Penguin group for the ARC.

Gosh I wanted to love this. The first book The House of Marionne was SO intriguing and enjoyable. I had a hard time setting it down. The romance between the characters, the introduction to the new world, ALL of it just hooked me. But this book? It slowed everything way down and I could not keep my eyes open. I felt the emotion was missing, the romance, the big reveals, idk. It was STUFFED full of so much information and world building so I’m hoping all that info is building up for a phenomenal book 3, but time will tell.

I received an advance review copy for free from the publisher via Netgalley and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

As the sequel to House of Marionne, Shadows of Perl was a great follow up. Getting to know more players in Quell and Jordan’s world helped to understand things better. I think Nore might be one of my favorite characters. I loved getting to dive deeper into her story, especially the parts where Yagrin is a factor. Did not see that coming!
Just as with HOM, this book gives tons of magic, mystery, action and takes us on one heck of a ride! Cannot wait to see what else is in store for the magic world, and what I’m labeling as our Core 4.

I think this is a great sequel to the first book but still very different. It picks up where House of Marionne ended while on the run after the events of the story. It delves deeper into the worldbuilding and is packed with action. We get to know the characters even more and the twists and challenges they face definitely top the first book.

I do think that since this is not the end of the series there are obviously things that are unresolved, but I feel like a few of them could have been wrapped up in this entry instead of dragging to the next.

The House of Marionne series is absolutely and completely underrated! I love the first book, and am so honored and thrilled to be selected as an ARC reader for the sequel. Confession: I have also bought it twice over, because I wanted the signed Goldberg SE, and I just have the US first printing naked hardcover on my shelf! So needless to say, I am rating the sequel 5 stars.

J Elle has a unique writing style in that she unspools plot threads from various characters' POVs and not necessarily in order, and this has a similar effect to the "unreliable narrator" form of storytelling. The reader is forced to be comfortable with a sense of confusion and suspense throughout the narrative, trusting that in the end, everything that the author has thrown into the wind will make sense. For me as a reader, I enjoy being immersed in the world-building and knowing that I am viewing the storyline through a prism, knowing that the payoff is going to bring everything into sharp relief.

There is a huge twist right from the get-go that made me jump up and down I was so happy. It is fantastic, and gives Yagrin's story completely unexpected stakes. I love the partnership that he formed with Quell, and that they were both on the run from Jordan at the same time. I also loved spending so much time at Hartsboro and Dlaminaugh Estate, and getting to know the other heiresses, Nore and Adola. We also get the chance to see Jordan advance further into the Dragun brotherhood, as well as learn his and Yagrin's backstories. There is a lot happening in this second book and sometimes it can get overwhelming, but like the first book, everything came together. Also like the first book, I will enjoy it even more after rereading it because I will be able to see the end from the beginning and catch all the clues and foreshadowing that I missed the first run through.

Thank you Netgalley and Penguin Young Readers/Razorbill for the opportunity to read and review this novel.

Shadows of Perl is a great 2nd book in the series, There is a struggle of duty vs love. Loved the magic system in this and the continuation of world building. The building of forbidden magic is well done. The romance is enemies to lovers with slow burn that keeps you reading more.

At her final Rite of Induction to House Marionne, Quell chose to bind herself to her dark magic, the toushana. Now, she is on the run, hiding from both the Order and the Dragun brotherhood, where Jordan is second in command. Finding sanctuary at the House of Perl, Quell is surprised to see that her ability is celebrated instead of reviled, and even as she continues the search for her mother, she begins to explore the limits of her powers. Meanwhile, the Sphere, the source of magic is still under threat as it continues to crack. If it breaks, it will be the end of all magic. In Jordan’s eyes, Quell is the greatest threat to it, and he is duty bound to hunt her down. But war is brewing between the Houses and a deeper conspiracy is underway, and both Jordan and Quell must decide between their loyalties and the fate of magic itself.

Until a few months ago, I was in two minds whether to pick up this book or not. I did enjoy House of Marionne though I found the plot to be all over the place. But when the early reviews were generally positive, I decided to go ahead and request this ARC.

The plot felt much more solid this time around and focused as well. This didn’t have the whole boarding school and trials vibe, but it was replaced by some familiar fantasy themes and I was immediately hooked. Between the political intrigue, characters on the run and magic-ending conspiracies in play, there wasn’t a single dull moment. Shadows of Perl also did a really good job referencing events from the first book in a way that subtly caught up the readers on everything that previously happened.

In one way, this book was the complete opposite of the first and that was with regards to the urban fantasy angle. It was only mentioned once or twice that this world of magic exists alongside the regular non-magical world, and more in the context of not revealing the secret to them. Other than that, the plot of this book took place entirely in magical settings and I’m curious if this will continue.

Shadows of Perl maintained a steady pace, a little on the slower side, and it took some getting used to for me. I feel I’ve been saying this same thing for several books in a row once again – I’m not sure if that’s an indicator that I need to switch genres for a bit? – but this book felt so long! Though it was engaging, I had to make a real effort to push through at some points.

This book had three POVs: Quell, Jordan, and Nore Ambrose. Quell was a much more likeable character this time around and the same goes for the other two characters. With multiple POVs, they all felt better fleshed out and mature and I enjoyed their arcs. Quell and Jordan in particular had some really good character development.

Jordan was trying to come to terms with what Quell did and trying to reconcile his duty with his heart. I was quite disappointed with how long it took for Jordan to stop ignoring all the signs around him and start questioning things. He did get there in the end, but it made for several very irritating chapters. Quell, on the other hand, had to come to terms with this new magic she wields, and when she makes some heartbreaking discoveries, sets herself firmly on the path to vengeance. I still wasn’t all that invested in their romance and pretty much just skimmed through those few parts.

Nore’s POV was a bit confusing and while it eventually clicked as to who she was, I couldn’t get fully invested in her character until closer to the end. It looks like her arc will be an interesting one going forward!

Apparently this is not a duology? I hadn’t heard of this, so until literally the final pages, I was expecting things to come to a close and it was only at that final cliffhanger that I realized there were more books to come. That said, that completely chaotic finale was such an exciting read and there was so much going on in each POV! As for the ending with Jordan, I kind of saw it coming, though I was thinking it might be Quell who ended up taking that step.

Shadows of Perl was a much more interesting read than I expected, and I think I will be continuing the series whenever the next book is out. If the premise sounds interesting to you and you’re a fan of the genre, I would recommend this series!