rachelini's review against another edition
3.0
This is more on me than the book, because I didn't remember the previous book, but it took me until probably halfway through before I understood why they'd even gone to Seattle in the first place. Very much enjoy the core group of characters, though.
dani_k's review against another edition
4.0
I've taken issue with the way many steampunk novels avoid the troublesome cultural issues of the time they're glorifying. Even though this series takes place in a timeline altered from true history, it manages to address a very real problem at this time in American history—the plight of Chinese immigrants. Breath of Earth introduced an extreme version of real events with the invention of the United Pacific, a cooperative union between the United States and Japan (with an eye toward empire-building and the complete destruction of China). Call of Fire expands on this theme.
While this book doesn't maintain the break-neck pacing of the first, it does take time to examine culture and show us a bit more about this world. I also really enjoyed getting more info on the fantastics, which are magical creatures based on fae and other creatures from mythology. All these elements added together, and combined with a magic system that's fun and different, make for a great series so far.
While this book doesn't maintain the break-neck pacing of the first, it does take time to examine culture and show us a bit more about this world. I also really enjoyed getting more info on the fantastics, which are magical creatures based on fae and other creatures from mythology. All these elements added together, and combined with a magic system that's fun and different, make for a great series so far.
duncan_r's review against another edition
5.0
Another wonderful book from Beth Cato. Longer review available Tuesday Oct 23, 2018 on www.duncansbooksandmore.com
bricin's review against another edition
3.0
Lovely world creation; I like how the magic slowly unfolds throughout the two books. I appreciate the underlying racial tensions in the books and how those are impacting each of the main characters.
The dings:
* The books could use more editorial oversight. There are errors and inconsistencies throughout.
* The love interest is a touch forced.
The dings:
* The books could use more editorial oversight. There are errors and inconsistencies throughout.
* The love interest is a touch forced.
lizshayne's review
3.0
I knew I had read the first book in this series and remembered absolutely NOTHING about it except that there was earth magic and a main character. So, you know, I wasn't actually wrong about anything.
It's still a really cute series. The main characters don't annoy me and the romance is handled very well.
It's still a really cute series. The main characters don't annoy me and the romance is handled very well.
jackiijackii's review
5.0
I couldn't put it down. Everything's escalating and new revelations and secrets and the stakes just keep getting higher and higher. Cannot wait until book 3!
everydaymagic's review
4.0
A wonderful read, full of historical fact and fantasy combined. While dealing with many uncomfortable subjects, this book kept me turning pages as I sympathized with the protagonist and her friends so much. In addition, here in Book 2 of the series, we get more information on Ingrid, the protagonist, and her previously-unknown background, and are treated to watching her learn and grow in her magical, geomantic skills. (PS--I really loved Tacoma.)
The settings are wonderful, the "motley" assortment of protagonist's friends and allies are easy to cheer for, the conversations going on are engaging, and the fantastic creatures are, um, fantastic! Both historical fantasy *and* secondary world fantasy fans will both really dig this series, and its unique takes on a historical era not much seen recently.
The settings are wonderful, the "motley" assortment of protagonist's friends and allies are easy to cheer for, the conversations going on are engaging, and the fantastic creatures are, um, fantastic! Both historical fantasy *and* secondary world fantasy fans will both really dig this series, and its unique takes on a historical era not much seen recently.
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