Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Monstrous Citadel by Mirah Bolender Series: Chronicles of Amicae #2
Published by Tor on November 5, 2019
Genres: Fantasy
Pages: 410
Format: eARC
Source: NetGalley
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Amicae, City of Sweepers, survived the Falling Infestation which nearly destroyed it thanks to the efforts of Laura and Okane. While the ancient monsters have been beaten back for the moment, new and more monstrous dangers face them in the form of belligerent bureaucracy, dangerous gangs, grasping Sweepers bent on personal glory . . .
And Rex, the City of Kings, who breed their own kind of monstrosity.
Laura and Okane must go to Rex to reclaim the secret weaponry that keeps Amicae safe and come face to face with a horrifying truth about the Rex and their designs on all of Orien's cities.
I really enjoyed City of Broken Magic and somehow missed the release of the next book in the Chronicles of Amicae series. So luckily when Tor offered me the third book, they also allowed me a review copy of The Monstrous Citadel. It took a little to get started after the time lapse but the pace was quick and I was easily on board.
Laura is still our view into this story and world. She has been a Sweeper for less than a year and has had so many challenges. I appreciate how strong she is, even with the crazy danger thrown at her. She and Okane are the only Sweepers now until the new head Sweeper, Juliana is named. Unfortunately, Juliana is more interested in her press than the actual quality of her work. Laura and Okane are right to be cautious with her and her brother.
The new head sweeper does what she can do get rid of Laura and Okane so she can have things her own way. They discover some of her lies and set about fixing the problems. The fixing leads them to Rex where they are in even more danger. Their planning leaves much to be desired as it is nonexistent. The harrowing rescue there wouldn’t be possible without their new found allies. Like all great urban fantasy heroes, Laura is building a band of misfits to help her fight for what is right with intelligence and compassion. Rex has always tried to enslave other cities and now they have their sights on Amicae.
The Monstrous Citadel is a bit long and the next book, Fortress of Magi is a bit shorter than the average 300 some pages. I enjoyed learning more about the different magics in the world and hope Laura and her friends can catch a break as I read more.
About Mirah Bolender
Mirah Bolender graduated from college with majors in creative writing and art in May 2014. A lifelong traveler, she has traveled and studied overseas, most notably in Japan, and these experiences are reflected in her work. City of Broken Magic is her debut fantasy novel.
I read all types of books but my favorites are urban fantasy and romantic suspense.I like some romance and some action / adventure / mystery in everything.I like sex in my books but please, only between TWO people.Intimate conversation is equally important to the sex in a book.It lets me see the characters.The other thing I enjoy is humor.
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Reading this book contributed to these challenges:
- C21-Spring
I have to admit I DNF’d City of Broken Magic, it just wasn’t working for me. But I’m glad you’re enjoying this series?
I’m sorry it didn’t work for you. I didn’t rate it as highly as these next two. Laura was certainly going through some growing pains and perhaps the author as well since it was her debut I think.
This sounds pretty interesting, especially the world and its magic. Glad you’re enjoying the series. 🙂
I have enjoyed it and wouldn’t mind reading another book in this series.
Oh wow, if this was 2019, when did the first one come out? I’m glad you were able to enjoy it even with the gap.
The first one was 2018 so it wasn’t one book a year. They were spread a bit differently. I’m glad I got to catch up and now am up-to-date on the series.