Brett McNeil

Wow. I’ve got a lot to say about this sequel. I started it directly after finishing Ordinary Monsters and loved how it flowed and continued with the ending of the first book. And it did not disappoint. While reading, I had tons of moments of frustration. I’d get a little mad at the characters for not doing all they could after what they’d been through at the Manor. Especially with Charlie. My god, I was really annoyed with his constant whining, and it really didn’t get much better by the end of the book. (Please, J. M., give this man a backbone in the final book!!!). This sequel is action-packed and full of more character development. Trigger warning: definitely more violent than the first book. It is also exquisitely written. Below I have pasted some of my favourite quotes from throughout that made me pause for reflection. I CANNOT wait for the final book. I hope it’s a beast of a read and it comes sooner rather than later! I’d also love a full box set. The covers have changed at my local bookstore, so I’m waiting to see with the final one if we will get a beautiful hardcover box set. Fingers crossed!! Quote: "There is an end to this, too," said Berghast. "As there is to all things. Be brave. We must go on, just a little further. Until we cannot." Quote: "Who we are acquires its shape through the choices we make and go on making. Do you see? There is no right course. We just do what we can. And after a while, the choices we make are all in conversation with the ones we've made before.” Quote: “Sometimes it was like living wasn't anything more than just surviving. And surviving? That was just a matter of how much you could stand to lose before you weren't you anymore.”

This book is a beast, and I won’t lie I was hesitant to start it. Once I got into the story, the characters, I couldn’t put it down. The world that Miro creates is incredible. So detailed and original. It’s a great fantasy read without all the romance that is dominating the genre right now. I defiantly recommend this read!!

This album is one that I continually go to when I need to relax, unwind, and feel comfort. Personally one of my favourite albums to meditate to, as well as put on when I am needing a calmness throughout a space. It provides me with a feeling of safety. Besides Singularity, this is one of my favourite works by Jon Hopkins.