A FRACTURED LIGHT

This first sequel to A Beautiful Dark (2011) works mostly as romance and exposition, setting up the final book in the planned trilogy.

The opening scene resolves the ending of the first book, but this volume focuses mainly on Skye’s emerging supernatural powers and her continual indecision between the two warring angel factions—and between her two rival angel boyfriends. As she struggles to learn how to control her new abilities, even as she discovers what specific abilities she has, she continues her effort to decide which side of the angel war to take, no matter that she has already decided firmly for the rebels. So attracted to Asher, the rebel angel, that fires break out when they touch, she still can’t get over her feelings for Devin, the “Guardian” angel, despite his hostile acts toward her in the previous book. Plus, she has Guardian abilities, so shouldn’t she be on that side? Skye also delves into her family history, learning secrets that help to explain her situation. This book features little action beyond ski races, cryptic visions, dangerous weather and looming threats from the two factions, maintaining suspense mostly through Skye’s continual indecision. Although mostly exposition, this installment appears to point to plenty of action in the final book.

Readers will have to wait and see.