The Battle Drum

A great addition to the series which avoids all the usual second book issues by taking the reader to new and exciting locations where the plot really moves forward. New characters are bought in which are as interesting as the original cast and the voice of one neurodivergent character in particular is very strong. At no point does this book feel like filler in the middle of the trilogy.

The best thing about the novel is the brave character development from the author. The events of the books have a dramatic Impact on all the main characters who go through changes that are understandable but also surprising. The changes in one character in particular is a big swing from the author that she pulls off brilliantly.

One criticism I would make is that is that parts of the plot seem somewhat contrived which did take me out of the story at one point. However this is a minor quibble on a really great book.

Such a good sequel!

I love the world, the history and the lore but would have liked a bit more about the magic. I can't wait for the next instalment!

Anoor is the first blue-blooded ruler of the Wardens' Empire. But when she is accused of a murder she didn't commit, her reign is thrown into turmoil. She must solve the mystery and clear her name without the support of her beloved, Sylah.
Sylah braves new lands to find a solution for the hurricane that threatens to destroy her home. But in finding answers, she must make a decision, does she sacrifice her old life in order to raise up her sword once more?
Hassa's web of secrets grows ever thicker as she finds herself on a trail of crimes in the city. Her searching uncovers the extent of the atrocities of the empire's past and present. Now, she must guard both her heart and her land.
The three women find their answers, but they're not the answers they wanted. The drumbeat of change thrums throughout the world.
Many secrets are revealed on this second installment, especially the one on the end of the book, make me wish I could read the next installment immediately.

This picks up right where the Final Strife ended. Since this is a sequel, I'm not going into details.
I will just say that I loved it! One of my favorite things about the first book was the world building, and this one expanded on that quite a bit. There is so much going on in lots of different places and I can't wait to see how it all plays out.
A great cast of characters again. I love them all, but I was really loving the parts with Hassa.

I loved it and can't wait to continue the series.

Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for an e-arc.

This has got to be the best sequel I've read since words of radiance.

The characters ! The plot! The world!
I am screaming
I devoured this book and it exceeded my expectations

The characters were off another level. Some were terrifying (looking at you Nayeli) others progressed in a way I didn't like but I know it's going to make for an amazing book three. And Jond. He grew on me until I was rooting for him in this book. His relationship with Sylah is so shattered and yet so deep. I love it.
Don't get me started on Anoor. Making stupid choices but it works for her because she is just such a trusting character.

The world expanded in the most brilliant way. There's more than what I ever thought there would be in this book and I can't wait to see more of it in book three (which I need! Now)

Everything in this book is so thought out from the writing to the world. Sara El-Arifi is becoming one of my favourite authors.