I really enjoyed diving deeper into Elijah's past and how the witches came into the picture. The love story was just so sweet and the way it was written was perfect. The ending had me craving more, more, more. There's still tons to discover and I'm eagerly looking forward to finding out how it all wraps up!

An excellent secondary installment that deepens the characters, expands the world, and improves on its predecessor in almost every way. This book is actually a perfect example as to why I, as a librarian, request sequel titles; because while I enjoyed the first book, I was also very much aware of its flaws. There were actually several things about it that would have irked me in another book, and this made me hesitant to more broadly recommend it or promote it. But now that I've read the sequel and know all the goodness and potential that awaits, you bet your biscuit I'm going to be spreading the love for this series!

The world in this book just felt so much richer and more lived in than the first, and a big part of that is due to the addition of a new (third person) POV character through whom we are able to gain greater insight into the workings of the magic and politics of Arnhem (and maybe beyond?). We really get to know the witches here and are finally introduced to the mysterious ruling council, both of which make for interesting and entertaining antagonists--and whose presence in the story certainly acts to raise the stakes. Mira, of course, is still the main protagonist and still making plenty of mistakes and potentially dumb decisions. Her allies feel more well-developed this time around, though, and I found myself quite attached to several of them. The found family vibes are strong. And let's just say that the love stories--romantic, platonic, familial--contained within these pages are all lovely and well done. (I'm really routing for quite a few!)

All in all a very enjoyable read that elevates the story and promises even great things to come. Be prepared: this ones ends on a bit of a cliff hanger and you will be desperate to find out what happens next!

I really enjoyed this book!! The plot was so interesting and full of adventure that I was never bored. The author did a great job with character development because I was full invested in there stories. I will be recommending this book to all of my friends and family.

I really had a great time reading this, it had that overall story elements that I wanted and enjoyed the fantasy concept. The characters felt like they belonged in this story and the world. Rachel Greenlaw was able to weave a great tale that I was looking for and enjoyed how everything worked with the writing style.

A fantastic follow-up to Compass and Blade! Mira’s raging tempest of power, Brielle’s perspective, Elijah’s family, and the quest to protect the Fortunate Isles. I love this seafaring world full of magic, witches, and monsters!

The world and larger political mechanisms continue to expand. We learn more about The Watch and the role they play in trying to gain control of all the islands - condemning those who stand against them and ruthless in their quest to harness all magical beings and power. I loved learning more about Elijah’s background and the introduction of the witches into the story. The romance was also so sweet and perfectly written. The ending left me wanting more, more, more. There’s still so much to explore and I can’t wait to see how the story concludes!

Thank you to Netgalley, Quill Tree Books, and HarperCollins Children’s Books for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

the most anticipated sequel!! i received the arc for the first one and had been desperate to continue the story ever since, and i truly feel the world was explored much more this time around! the fmc still irked me a SMIDGE, but this is ya and i will excuse it. i believe the writing was also quite entertaining, and this was a great second book in the installment!!