Author: Shannon Messenger
Published: October 1st 2013
Series: Keeper of the Lost Cities #2
Genre: MG Fantasy
Publisher: Aladdin
POV: 3rd person limited
Pages: 576
Format: Printed ARC
Source: Publicist
Rating: The Royal Library, Top Shelf
Sophie Foster thought she was safe. Settled into her home at Havenfield, surrounded by friends, and using her unique telepathic abilities to train Silveny--the first female alicorn ever seen in the Lost Cities--her life finally seems to be coming together.
But Sophie's kidnappers are still out there. And when Sophie discovers new messages and clues from the mysterious Black Swan group, she’s forced to take a terrifying risk—one that puts everyone in incredible danger.
As long buried secrets rise to the surface, it’s once again up to Sophie to uncover hidden memories—before someone close to her is lost forever.
In this second book in the Keeper of the Lost Cities series, Sophie must journey to the darkest corners of her luminous world in a sequel that will leave you breathless for more.
Sophie Foster is back, and in EXILE she's in for a world of trouble and excitement. From training a rare alicorn (essentially, a very endearing winged unicorn) to trying not to fail her classes at Foxfire, Sophie's life becomes exceedingly complicated when the mysterious Black Swan group continues to send her obscure messages. As if that's not bad enough, Sophie's become even more of a strange outcast in her society -- especially since she now has a goblin bodyguard to keep her safe -- and her elfish abilities are starting to have some problems. In order to save herself - and the people she cares about - Sophie has to travel into unknown territory, and decide who she can trust to help her succeed...
Once again, Messenger gives elves and other creatures of myth her own twist in this captivating sequel. Dangerous, thrilling, and incredibly surprising, EXILE is an outstanding sequel that will keep readers glued to the pages. I told myself I would only read a few chapters one night, and somehow found myself up at midnight, still reading. The characters I fell in love with in the first novel are given more page-time in this sequel, and Sophie's adventures take a darker, more emotional turn. While I highly enjoyed KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES, Messenger surprised me with how incredible EXILE turned out to be. If you are looking for a fun and creative middle-grade series that is filled with surprises and fabulous characters, then you need to check out these books.
Highlights: I love how important family and friendship is in this series. While Sophie relies heavily on herself, she also leans on her friends (especially Dex and Keefe) and family (the fabulous Grady and Edaline) when she needs some extra support. I even enjoyed Sophie's struggles with her abilities in this novel, and how she never let that hold her back. The new details Messenger included about Sophie's fascinating world were fantastic. While reading, I never knew what to expect from this story, so I was very surprised by certain moments.
Lowlights: I didn't make note of any lowlights while reading, so I think it's safe to say that I highly enjoyed this entire story. I was a bit bothered by Fitz's moody attitude, but I understand why he acted the way he did.
Rating: The Royal Library, Top Shelf. I love EXILE, so it is going on the top shelves in the royal library where everyone can see it. I'd highly recommend this book, because it is an incredible story and an exceptional sequel.
My Reviews of Other Works by Shannon Messenger
Oh, I just loved the first book in this series, Lea, so I'm glad to hear that the second book doesn't disappoint at all! Wonderful review, doll! :)
ReplyDeleteIf you loved the first book, you'll love the sequel - it's even better and so much more surprising!
DeleteThe emphasis on friendship and loyalty sounds great and something I would really like in a book
ReplyDeleteIt's a nice aspect to the story - definitely one of my favorite aspects of this series.
DeleteI'm hoping to read Keeper soon, so I'm so glad to hear you liked the sequel! It seems like such a fun series. :)
ReplyDeleteYou should check out KEEPER soon! Both books are great!
DeleteYay! Glad you loved it too. <3 I thought it was amazing. Such good books. Sniffs. Jealous about Print ARC :) Want an ARC of it so bad. <3 I might have a crush on Fitz. I too was bothered by his behavior at times, but I did love him and understand him. For the most part :D Great review. <3
ReplyDeleteFitz's behavior was understandable - he's young and he was going through a lot in this book. Although I'm still more of a Keefe fan ;)
DeleteI don't read a lot of MG novels but I quite like the sound of this series and I agree, family and friendships are important so I'm pleased to see this aspect was done well.
ReplyDeleteA wonderful review! Thank-you for sharing :-)
I rarely read MG books too, but this series is the exception. It's so fun and creative!
DeleteOh man, I totally forgot about the first book! I remember your review now though and I remember feeling so excited to read it because it sounds right up my alley. But you know how it is... you get busy and new books come out and then you forget about the ones you were so excited for before. Well, this sequel and your review for it is the perfect reminder!
ReplyDeleteIt's hard to read everything - so many books, and not enough time :)
DeleteI'm going to have to check this one out. I love a good MG fantasy, especially if it offers up something new.
ReplyDeleteHope you enjoy it! It's a great story!
DeleteWow this is a MG book and it's nearly 600 pages? That's impressive. And a little daunting, even for an avid reader like myself:) Love when I come across a book where I really have to strain my brain to think of any small niggle or flaw, and it's always a fantastic sign when even then I can't find one. So glad you loved this one Lea, I'll definitely have to check out book one!
ReplyDeleteI think the font is a bit larger, which might be part of the reason why it's long, but it reads pretty quickly! It is so easy to get caught up in the story, and before you know it, you're done :)
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