Rise

In this action-packed sequel to Rule (2018), Zofi, Ren, and Akeylah once again find themselves in a precarious position in the palace they now call home.Not only are they hiding terrible acts of treason, but they are also no closer to finding their blackmailer--the true heir--who threatens to expose them. Since the sisters refuse to give up their claims to the throne, the blackmailer begins to target them and their loved ones instead: Following the murder of their aunt, Yasmin, an attempt is made on Ren's life (although she is rescued in the nick of time). To make matters worse, everyone now knows that Zofi murdered her half brother, the Silver Prince, and that Ren's misplaced trust resulted in the loss of hundreds of lives. Only Akeylah's secret--accidentally cursing King Andros to his death--is still safe, but that is only because the true heir thinks she is easy to manipulate. With Zofi banished from the kingdom and Ren under lock and key, will the sisters stop the true heir before anyone else is killed? Goodlett does not disappoint--unexpected twists and turns keep the plot fresh and readers wanting more, and character development is stronger than in the previous volume. Ethnicity remains difficult to determine, but the treatment of Travelers and mistrust of foreigners reflect issues in our world.A female-centric narrative that puts empathy, trust, and familial love before romance. (Fantasy. 14-18)

COPYRIGHT(2019) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. (Online Review)

July 12, 2019

Gr 9 Up-This dark fantasy comes to a conclusion in this sequel to Rule. Sisters Akeylah, Ren, and Zofi are forced to share their secrets with one another, trusting that they will be able to work together to survive the threats made by the blackmailer calling themselves the "true heir." As their father nears death, exiled Zofi searches for a way to reverse the curse that is killing him, and Akeylah learns that Queen Rozalind, now her lover, has a secret that not only could change the succession but also makes Rozalind a prime suspect as the blackmailer. While all three sisters are forced to take a hard look at themselves and take responsibility for their actions, Akeylah's character development truly shines in this story as she feeds the strength that has always been there, even when she was abused and neglected before the sisters were revealed as heirs to the crown. The explicit violence and sexual implications in this compelling series make it a better fit for more mature teens. VERDICT Fans of Kendare Blake's "Three Dark Crowns" books and Morgan Rhodes's "Falling Kingdoms" series will enjoy this duology, as will readers who are looking for dark fantasy without lengthy and ongoing installments.-Kerry Sutherland, Akron-Summit County Public Library, OH

Copyright 2019 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.