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queer_bookwyrm's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
4 ⭐ CW: violence, cannibalism, death, descriptions of corpses
The Ever Cruel Kingdom by Rin Chupeco is the second and final book in the Never-Tilting World duology. This was a great second book! So many second books of a duology tend to be disappointing or more flat than the first book, but this one was just as exciting and engaging as the first.
We pick up after the events of last book with Haidee and Odessa teaming up with Arjun's clan as all the desert clans get together to figure out how to survive in this new world. The Galla that were after Odessa are coming back in full force, but she still refuses the 7th Gall's gift. Not only do they have the demons to contend with, they now have to deal with their mother's fighting instead of working together.
We get some wonderful growth from both Haidee and Odessa, together and apart. We also get to learn more about Latona and Asteria's relationship before The Breaking and why the Breaking happened. We get themes on how a little compassion goes a long way, as is evident in the Twins' treatment of the Saiga clan. We also get themes on environmentalism, stewardship, and conservation.
I loved the dynamic between Arjun and Lan in this book. They both realize they are in love with fools of goddesses. Both of their vibes are "don't do the thing," and then The twins do the thing as Arjun and Lan run after them. Noelle was a secret aroace badass in this book and I wanted so much more from her. As with the last book, Chupeco includes talk therapy as a treatment for PTSD and has many discussions around mental health. I love the inclusion of this and other disabilities throughout the book.
I just love Rin's writing so much. Their world-building is so good. I only wish there was another book!
The Ever Cruel Kingdom by Rin Chupeco is the second and final book in the Never-Tilting World duology. This was a great second book! So many second books of a duology tend to be disappointing or more flat than the first book, but this one was just as exciting and engaging as the first.
We pick up after the events of last book with Haidee and Odessa teaming up with Arjun's clan as all the desert clans get together to figure out how to survive in this new world. The Galla that were after Odessa are coming back in full force, but she still refuses the 7th Gall's gift. Not only do they have the demons to contend with, they now have to deal with their mother's fighting instead of working together.
We get some wonderful growth from both Haidee and Odessa, together and apart. We also get to learn more about Latona and Asteria's relationship before The Breaking and why the Breaking happened. We get themes on how a little compassion goes a long way, as is evident in the Twins' treatment of the Saiga clan. We also get themes on environmentalism, stewardship, and conservation.
I loved the dynamic between Arjun and Lan in this book. They both realize they are in love with fools of goddesses. Both of their vibes are "don't do the thing," and then The twins do the thing as Arjun and Lan run after them. Noelle was a secret aroace badass in this book and I wanted so much more from her. As with the last book, Chupeco includes talk therapy as a treatment for PTSD and has many discussions around mental health. I love the inclusion of this and other disabilities throughout the book.
I just love Rin's writing so much. Their world-building is so good. I only wish there was another book!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death
Moderate: Violence
Minor: Cannibalism
theespressoedition's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
Recently, I was discussing duologies with a fellow reader. We both agreed that duologies are tricky and often dissatisfying. If the first book is good, the second one can sometimes feel rushed or chaotic or just plain disappointing. If the first book is so-so, the sequel is frequently really great and ends in a "tied in a bow" manner. I'm pleased to announce that this duology was just really interesting all the way through.
While I didn't give this one quite has high of a rating as the first, it wasn't for lack of interest or gratification so much as a... somewhat predictable ending. I have to admit that I often see things coming, so if I weren't quite as observant in that manner, there's a possibility I would've been pleasantly surprised and happy with the end. Mostly, this is a fault of my own and not on the book. At least the ending made most everything clear and I didn't feel like it needed more.
The story itself was fascinating from beginning-to-end. The romance was sweet and while definitely a primary aspect, it wasn't the main plot, which I actually liked in this duo. It didn't take away from the importance of the story and the focus being mostly on the twin goddesses... both sets of them.
I'm glad that I chose to listen to the audiobook again - but I also did read the last 25% on my Kindle, which is what made me realize that the audiobook was a good choice. While it was interesting enough reading it with my eyes, the story really came alive with the narrators and the chapters went by much quicker (which was nice, considering they were very long). Overall, I highly recommend listening to this duology!
I could see myself reading these books again, which actually surprised me a little bit. I may purchase the audiobooks for the future because they were just a lot of fun and were oddly comforting in some ways. The story lulled me, which was a good thing. They weren't boring - they were cozy!
While I didn't give this one quite has high of a rating as the first, it wasn't for lack of interest or gratification so much as a... somewhat predictable ending. I have to admit that I often see things coming, so if I weren't quite as observant in that manner, there's a possibility I would've been pleasantly surprised and happy with the end. Mostly, this is a fault of my own and not on the book. At least the ending made most everything clear and I didn't feel like it needed more.
The story itself was fascinating from beginning-to-end. The romance was sweet and while definitely a primary aspect, it wasn't the main plot, which I actually liked in this duo. It didn't take away from the importance of the story and the focus being mostly on the twin goddesses... both sets of them.
I'm glad that I chose to listen to the audiobook again - but I also did read the last 25% on my Kindle, which is what made me realize that the audiobook was a good choice. While it was interesting enough reading it with my eyes, the story really came alive with the narrators and the chapters went by much quicker (which was nice, considering they were very long). Overall, I highly recommend listening to this duology!
I could see myself reading these books again, which actually surprised me a little bit. I may purchase the audiobooks for the future because they were just a lot of fun and were oddly comforting in some ways. The story lulled me, which was a good thing. They weren't boring - they were cozy!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death and Death of parent
Moderate: Gore, Blood, and Murder
Minor: Cannibalism
melaniereadsbooks's review against another edition
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I liked this one quite a lot but didn't love it. I didn't think it was as good as the first one in the series. There were some parts I really enjoyed (the world building is still absolutely stellar), but I wasn't a huge fan of what went on with some of the characters. I also felt the ending wrapped things up a little too neatly, which is one of my pet peeves with books.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Panic attacks/disorders, and Death of parent
Moderate: Gore, Suicidal thoughts, Violence, and Grief
Minor: Sexual content and Cannibalism
foreverinastory's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This ending. I am just... I cried when it ended. Rin always nails endings. Bittersweet in the best way possible. I have too many feels.
The Ever Cruel Kingdom picks up right where the previous book leaves off. Haidee, Odessa and company are transported to outside the Golden City with the portal in Brighthenge. The twins expect to see the world righted now that it's turning again, but things seem even more dire. The creatures from the abyss will keep coming until the sacrifice is completed. The twins will have to descend to the underworld to find the answers.
This was wild. I loved the addition of Lisette and seeing more of the tribes that live outside the Golden City. I loved seeing Haidee and Odessa work together and getting a chance to deepen their sibling bond. I loved how they constantly finished each others sentences and could enhance the other's magic. I just freaking love these two SO DAMN MUCH.
The mythology that we see in the first book is really delved into with this installment. We see what the twin goddesses are meant to do and what happened to the first twins. Overall, this duology is amazing and I CANNOT recommend it enough.
Rep: Chronically ill sapphic MC, Asian coded sapphic (lesbian coded) MC suffering from PTSD, disabled POC MC that is missing one of his hands. Main side character introduced is bisexual. I believe most the characters are POC but I'm not 100% certain.
CWs: Violence, blood, animal death, cannibalism, death, death of parent, gaslighting, emotional abuse, grief, sexual content, mental illness (PTSD), murder.
The Ever Cruel Kingdom picks up right where the previous book leaves off. Haidee, Odessa and company are transported to outside the Golden City with the portal in Brighthenge. The twins expect to see the world righted now that it's turning again, but things seem even more dire. The creatures from the abyss will keep coming until the sacrifice is completed. The twins will have to descend to the underworld to find the answers.
This was wild. I loved the addition of Lisette and seeing more of the tribes that live outside the Golden City. I loved seeing Haidee and Odessa work together and getting a chance to deepen their sibling bond. I loved how they constantly finished each others sentences and could enhance the other's magic. I just freaking love these two SO DAMN MUCH.
The mythology that we see in the first book is really delved into with this installment. We see what the twin goddesses are meant to do and what happened to the first twins. Overall, this duology is amazing and I CANNOT recommend it enough.
Rep: Chronically ill sapphic MC, Asian coded sapphic (lesbian coded) MC suffering from PTSD, disabled POC MC that is missing one of his hands. Main side character introduced is bisexual. I believe most the characters are POC but I'm not 100% certain.
CWs: Violence, blood, animal death, cannibalism, death, death of parent, gaslighting, emotional abuse, grief, sexual content, mental illness (PTSD), murder.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Mental illness, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, Grief, and Gaslighting
Moderate: Animal death, Emotional abuse, Cannibalism, Death of parent, and Murder
olivialandryxo's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
The Never Tilting World was one of my favorite books of 2020, and The Ever Cruel Kingdom will definitely end up on my 2021 favorites list. This duology is undeniably one of my absolute favorites. Chupeco’s writing is lovely, and their ability to craft intricate worlds, complex characters and emotional relationships is incredible. There isn’t a single thing about this book I disliked. Haidee, Odessa, Lan, and Arjun are brilliant. The romances are brilliant. The plot is brilliant. Yes,
there’s a theme here: everything is just brilliant, and that’s not an exaggeration. I also really like the story’s emphasis on family, grief, and forgiveness. Chupeco fit so much into these pages and did so brilliantly. No, I won’t stop using that word. It’s accurate. I’m not sure what else to say. The last few chapters had me terrified, but everything worked out in the end. It was perfect, and I mean it. My heart was so happy reading the epilogue. I’m so happy that I read these books. I’m rambling, but whatever. I’ll be recommending these books for years to come. I absolutely love them!!
Representation
there’s a theme here: everything is just brilliant, and that’s not an exaggeration. I also really like the story’s emphasis on family, grief, and forgiveness. Chupeco fit so much into these pages and did so brilliantly. No, I won’t stop using that word. It’s accurate. I’m not sure what else to say. The last few chapters had me terrified, but everything worked out in the end. It was perfect, and I mean it. My heart was so happy reading the epilogue. I’m so happy that I read these books. I’m rambling, but whatever. I’ll be recommending these books for years to come. I absolutely love them!!
Representation
- full cast of characters of color
chronically ill lesbian protagonist
amputee protagonist
bisexual protagonist with PTSD
sapphic relationship
queer side characters (includes bi and aro ace rep)
side characters of color
Content Warnings
Moderate: Death, Gore, Violence, Blood, and Grief
Minor: Sexual content, Suicidal thoughts, and Cannibalism
azrah786's review against another edition
3.5
[This full review can also be found on my BLOG]
**I was gifted a copy of this book for a blog tour with Pride Book Tours in exchange for an honest review**
CW: trauma, grief, death, self-harm, cannibalism
If you love your adventure quest stories, intricate magic systems, puzzling prophecies and sisterhood/found family themes then you should definitely check this series out!
The Ever Cruel Kingdom kicks off exactly where the events of The Never Tilting World left off with just as much adventure and high stakes – I was hooked until the very end.
The sequel definitely has a bigger familial aspect, which I think Chupeco really excels at in their books. The sisterhood between Haidee and Odessa was beautifully written – I loved their moments together in the story so much. Though their individual personalities continued to shine through just as much as their bond!
The various other relationships within the story – both romantic and platonic – were fantastic too and I loved how the direction of the story allowed them all to be explored.
The captivating world building and element based magic system were both expanded further in this sequel, the latter particularly when it came to the fight/battle scenes which were amazing!
I also personally love it when fantasy books have moments where science and magic work together so I absolutely loved it when Haidee’s mechanika side came out!
I will admit that I enjoyed this one a little less than book 1 and have knocked off half a star because though I enjoyed the individuality of the 4 person PoV, with the characters all being in one place for the most part of the book it did feel a little overcrowded at times.
Also prophecy stories can be a little tricky and some parts of the book felt a little rushed however, the overall plot and reveals allowed the story to wrap up perfectly.
A big thing that needs to be commended about this series though are the commentary on climate change as well the discussions and representation of mental health/grief and trauma.
It’s a story as emotionally packed as it is action packed and I can’t recommend it enough.
Final Rating - 3.5/5 Stars
**I was gifted a copy of this book for a blog tour with Pride Book Tours in exchange for an honest review**
CW: trauma, grief, death, self-harm, cannibalism
If you love your adventure quest stories, intricate magic systems, puzzling prophecies and sisterhood/found family themes then you should definitely check this series out!
The Ever Cruel Kingdom kicks off exactly where the events of The Never Tilting World left off with just as much adventure and high stakes – I was hooked until the very end.
The sequel definitely has a bigger familial aspect, which I think Chupeco really excels at in their books. The sisterhood between Haidee and Odessa was beautifully written – I loved their moments together in the story so much. Though their individual personalities continued to shine through just as much as their bond!
The various other relationships within the story – both romantic and platonic – were fantastic too and I loved how the direction of the story allowed them all to be explored.
The captivating world building and element based magic system were both expanded further in this sequel, the latter particularly when it came to the fight/battle scenes which were amazing!
I also personally love it when fantasy books have moments where science and magic work together so I absolutely loved it when Haidee’s mechanika side came out!
I will admit that I enjoyed this one a little less than book 1 and have knocked off half a star because though I enjoyed the individuality of the 4 person PoV, with the characters all being in one place for the most part of the book it did feel a little overcrowded at times.
Also prophecy stories can be a little tricky and some parts of the book felt a little rushed however, the overall plot and reveals allowed the story to wrap up perfectly.
A big thing that needs to be commended about this series though are the commentary on climate change as well the discussions and representation of mental health/grief and trauma.
It’s a story as emotionally packed as it is action packed and I can’t recommend it enough.
Final Rating - 3.5/5 Stars
Content Warnings
Graphic: Panic attacks/disorders
Moderate: Death, Self harm, and Grief
Minor: Cannibalism