Beyond its compelling storyline, the book stands out for its insightful commentary on the human condition, weaving philosophical questions into the fabric of its narrative. The author's skillful use of language not only enriches the text but also elevates the reader's experience, offering new perspectives on familiar themes. Whether it's the intricate dynamics of relationships, the exploration of identity, or the confrontation with ethical dilemmas, this book tackles complex issues with sensitivity and intelligence. It's a testament to the power of storytelling to illuminate the nuances of life, making it a valuable addition to any book lover's collection. Regardless of genre, this is a work that resonates on multiple levels, affirming the enduring impact of well-crafted literature.

This was a fantastic book. The world that was built and the characters are some complex and continue to build off of one another throughout the story. This is a great fantasy book and one of my favorites I've read so far.

This is a new fantasy that will be loved by many. It has good world building and can be pretty intense. But the images created are very real and I felt that I was there with these characters as they are trying to save this world.
It is a very long book though, but I think once you get into it, it moves pretty fast.

Thanks NetGalley for this ARC.

Portals. Death. A library. Destruction. Magic.

An unexpected ambush at the heart of Silvyria, in the Rose Garden, turns Helia's life around: her friend, Xavier, is killed. She has to get back to the Great Library and tell them about the threat she witnessed with her own eyes. Thinking Suttaru was long dead, he wants revenge. He was one of the first to inhabit the Great Library. But his work got him too close to evil which in return made him turn away from the Great Library and everyone he stood close. They have to work to find the missing dragon and how to save Paperworld before destruction hits them. ❝Dum spiro spero. While I breathe, I hope.❞

I so badly wanted this to be a 5 star read, but somewhere along the way this story lost me a bit. There were so many POV's and I got lost a bit. As I continued reading on, it got better as I got to know the characters. But it felt like this had way too many chapters/pages. it could've said a lot with fewer pages/paragraphs.

Some quotes I liked:
❝Thick flakes swept across his path, an unnatural and bitter rain that smelled of the destruction of life.❞
❝The figure turned his head back as it rained blood around them.❞
❝‘This is the Great Library of Tomorrow, after all! A place for mystery and magic. (…) If the Library is like a book, where the story moves at a different speed than reality, then us Sages are like characters in within that book. So, once you become a part of the story, time is no longer linear; you cease to age.’❞
❝They all ran for their lives, away from the horrific beasts and its babies, as the nightmare beings chased them, setting everything they touched ablaze.❞
❝‘We cannot stand by and allow her to be at the mercy of those who would seek to disrupt the balance. It would be catastrophic.’❞

I think many fantasy lovers will be pleased to hear that this book has a map! Although it did not have one when I read the advanced readers version, I'm sure this will be a great addition to the story when published. Also, dragons!!
Keep in mind, that this story is not for the faint of heart; the descriptions of violence, death, etc, is so presence in this I'm sure fantasy/horror lovers will find this a treat. It can be light at times, but the danger is there, creeping in the shadows, unexpectedly turning up.
Not sure if I will continue reading the rest of the books, but it was a okay read. I bumped it up to 4 stars because I made a favorite in Helia, and the horror element was well written. Hopefully, this will be someone's next favorite read!

Happy reading!