Knife-edge action and terrifying truths abound in Waller’s follow-up to Crest (2021).
It has been one month since the Battle of Tjarnnaast, during which Kateiko lost both of her parents in their pursuit to kill Liet, the leader of the violent Rúonbattai, only to realize that their true leader may have been Liet’s cleric companion who has vanished. Kateiko, who once had better control of her visions, struggles to live her daily life, haunted by scenes of a desolate wasteland and messages from her parents in the spirit world that she still cannot fully interpret. She leaves Nettle Ginu to search for missing friends Jorumgard and Tiernan who could play a critical role in protecting Eremur from the destructive Rúonbattai who seek to destroy it. As expected, Kateiko’s journey is relentless, and her self-control is tested as she balances being a hero determined to save her world with being a vulnerable young woman. She makes new acquaintances and must carefully discern who her allies and foes are. As in previous installments, Kateiko honestly and maturely explores dynamic romantic relationships, particularly those with Tsiala, a sarcastic woman warrior, and Tiernan, her much older mercenary friend with whom she shares a special connection even when they are apart. The Indigenous, or viirelei, people are brown-skinned; itherans are White, and the cast includes queer characters.
Emotionally stirring and complex; a promising conclusion awaits.
(maps, glossary, timeline) (Fantasy. 15-adult)