VEIL

The fiercely complex and compelling sequel to Waller’s fantasy debut, Flight(2018).

Following the devastating Blackbird Battle at the end of the previous installment, protagonist Kateiko has returned to the Rin-jouyen, the oldest and smallest tribe of the Aikoto Confederacy, which currently resides with the Iyo, the largest, on their settlement in Toel Ginu. Kateiko’s journey is far from over—she seeks to find more information on Suriel, an air spirit desperately trying to open a rift into the void dividing worlds, who has suddenly disappeared. Kateiko works furiously with her people and itheran (immigrant) allies to hunt down the human mages working for Suriel, but past mistakes haunt her while newer choices lead to disastrous consequences for both her and those she cares for. Having left her first unrequited love, Tiernan, she secretly agrees to marry Fendul, her childhood friend and Okorebai-Rin, to help rebuild their jouyen. But her heart calls to charming Iyo drummer Airedain, who, despite his promiscuous reputation, makes her feel something more. Fans will be reengaged by Waller’s war-torn worldbuilding and original characterization. Action is abundant, and expositional dumps are rare throughout, but a review of the first book is recommended for clarity, particularly regarding language, cultural nuances, and notable magical elements. Racial diversity is generalized, with Indigenous peoples having brown skin and itherans being white.

Adventurous, heartbreaking, and undoubtedly open-ended.