Carleen ☾ ☀︎'s Reviews > Ghostsmith

"This is only the beginning," Wren said, gripping his hand once more. "Only the beginning."



This was a satisfying conclusion to a great YA doulogy, 4 bone-chilling stars! The sequel picks up right where we left off in the first book, with our main characters on the run again. This was a whirlwind of nearly non-stop action and quick pacing, especially from 50% until the end. Some parts even left me gasping and squealing.

I had forgotten how much I loved the lore and unique world-building with the bone and ghostsmiths. The magic system was also pretty cool - controlling bones and ghosts!? 💀👻 So awesome. The aesthetic and vibes were definitely on point for the spooky season.

I enjoyed Leo's funny little quips, Julian's brooding heroism, and Wren/Hawke's budding relationship throughout the story. Wren's character arc from start to finish was satisfying to witness. At the beginning of the first book, she is completely arrogant, selfish, and reckless. But she has grown into a selfless, brave leader with a greater purpose.

My one little critique is that the villains felt very one-dimensional. I know this is a YA book so I don't expect very complex villains but I would like a better motivator than merely power.

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All in all, this was a memorable YA doulogy that is not nearly talked about enough. If you want a great YA fantasy series with ghosts, bones, creepy corpses, found family, and a touch of romance then look no further than the House of the Dead Doulogy.

"You know, I don't need a bone blade to make me think of you. The truth is, you're hard to shake, Wren Graven. You have a way of..." He frowned, searching for words.
"Annoying you?" Wren supplied, grinning.
"Getting under my skin," he clarified, though he was smiling too.
"What I'd like to get under is that armor," she shot back."

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𝒑𝒓𝒆-𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅 °•*⁀➷ 👻⚔️

I have waited almost a year for this sequel, and it's also the finale AHHHH! Spooky autumn books are coming early this year and I'm beyond excited. I devoured the first book so I have high expectations for this. I must brush up on the world and characters again before picking this up.