Among Serpents

November 1, 2024
In the aftermath of the events ofSky's End (2024), Conrad finds himself entrenched in the war against the Below. Now Captain of his Hunter ship and Prince of the Skylands, he faces the challenges that come with his high rank. Conrad's ruthless uncle rules with an iron fist, demanding unwavering loyalty from Conrad and his sister, Ella. Conrad's feelings for Bryce deepen, but his uncle's disapproval of her as a suitable partner puts their relationship in a precarious position. As Conrad navigates the complexities of leadership, he must make tough choices about the future of his family, friends, and the islands under his protection. Meanwhile, the Lantians, the people of the Below, continue to infiltrate the Skylands' ranks, unleashing deadly new creatures in the skies, and Conrad's uncle assigns him a pivotal mission, one that could alter the course of the war. While the book is packed with action, some of the battle scenes become repetitive, and some judicious trimming would have made the story feel punchier. However, readers will gain deeper insights into the worldbuilding, including the roles of the various Trades and the motivations of the Lantians. The ending sets the stage for an exciting trilogy finale. Most characters are cued white. A fast-paced if overlong middle volume that will leave fans eager for the series closer.(Science fiction. 14-18)

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January 1, 2025
Grades 7-12 After Prince Conrad Urwin's sky squadron suffers a terrible blow from a torton, an electric breathing, biomechanical tortoise from the Below, his uncle, King Urwin, gives him one last chance to prove himself: a mission to find Weapon's secrets. Although a Lantian ambush, mutiny, a homecoming, epic duels, and nothing short of the almighty gigatuan delay his mission, Conrad's journey leads to a finale packed with revelatory truths and puzzling questions waiting to be explained in book three. While the dizzying battles between the Skylands and the Below keep readers on the edge of their seats, the deeper character and setting engagement allow space to reflect on characters that struggle in the gray area between right and wrong in a surprisingly relatable world. Conrad's unique position as prince and his strong moral path steer him toward situations where his choices will help readers grasp both the challenges and rewards of becoming a strong leader. Overall, Gregson's second entry of the Above the Black trilogy provides a fast-paced story loaded with intense battles and ever-deepening characterization.

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