Guanzon pens a sequel to the bestselling The Hurricane Wars. Alaric and Talasyn are navigating their political marriage. Plots are piling up, even as a magical event threatens everyone's world—no matter what side they are on. Dragons play a larger role as the story unfolds. With a 150K-copy first printing. Prepub Alert. Copyright 2024 Library Journal

Alaric and Talasyn's strategic marriage is meant to bring peace to both of their countries after many years of conflict. The pair must join forces, and their magic, to stop a world-ending magical event in order to avoid destruction. However, that is easier said than done, as they have been on opposing sides for so much time, but the longer they work and train together, the more they learn about each other, which initiates an unexpected attraction and attachment. These feelings cause some complications, as Talasyn and Alaric are each hiding secrets from the other that could have unforgivable consequences. The secrets start to test where their loyalties lie, and the situation pushes how far Alaric and Talasyn are willing to go for their convictions. They will have to decide if they're willing to alter course for the feelings they have for one another or if they'll remain steadfast to their conflicting agendas. VERDICT Guanzon's highly anticipated sequel to The Hurricane Wars is a captivating read from start to finish. The tension between the characters with the mix of political intrigue and magic will be sure to enchant readers.—Ashli Wells

Tensions simmer but never ignite in Guanzon's underwhelming sequel to The Hurricane Wars. Though Sardovia and the Night Empire are now reluctant allies thanks to Talasyn and Alaric's arranged marriage, the relationship between the two nations remains volatile. Still, each needs the other to survive the Moonless Dark, which threatens to destroy their world. This means that Talasyn must play nice with Alaric, even as her allies plot to overthrow the Night Empire. Meanwhile, Alaric's father presses him to keep his new wife hostage and do whatever it takes to protect their people. Both of their missions are threatened by their mutual desire, however, leading each into a tug-of-war between their hearts and their loyalty to their families. The balance between romance and politics is off this time around, with the angst-heavy love story taking center stage as the brewing war is shunted to the background. As a result, the stakes feel lower than in the first installment. Fans will hope the next book is a return to form. Agent: Thao Le, Sandra Dijkstra Literary. (Dec.)