Book Review: Swift the Storm, Fierce the Flame (Edge Worlds, #2) by Meg Long
As I dove into Swift the Storm, Fierce the Flame, the enticing sequel to Cast the Night with Fire, I was reminded of the sheer wonder that science fiction can evoke. Meg Long has crafted a world that pulses with life, where jungles are not just backdrops but living entities, alive and waiting with bated breath— "Here, the jungle is its own entity, alive and waiting for prey to get lost within its vines." This immersive quality hooked me from the first chapter, setting the stage for an ambitious narrative that is as vibrant as it is tumultuous.
Now, I must admit, my reading journey took an unexpected turn toward frustration. With only 20% remaining and a mere four hours left, I was abruptly met with a "LCP error" from Netgalley. I didn’t finish the book, but not for lack of enthusiasm. I found myself so enthralled that I was eagerly looking ahead to its completion in January.
In the first chapters, Long throws you right into action, weaving an exhilarating pace that feels almost cinematic. The vibrancy of her world-building is extraordinary; the rich tapestry of creatures and systems draws you in with its detail and creativity. The jungle, the exhilarating landscapes, and the innovative terms make every page feel alive, hinting at potential for a movie adaptation that could showcase this vivid sci-fi experience.
The characters of Sena and Iska return, grounding not only the story but giving readers a warm sense of familiarity amidst the chaotic whirlwind of events. However, it was Remy’s character that stirred my thoughts most. There’s an undeniable depth to her perspectives, and while she brought a refreshing complexity, I found her self-righteousness frustrating at times. Her interactions with others often tread a fine line between self-discovery and scapegoating, creating tension that, while incredibly realistic, made me want to reach into the narrative and urge her to communicate better. This nuance showcases Long’s skill at character development—Remy’s struggles feel authentic, and her evolution is neither rushed nor predictable.
Moreover, I appreciated how Remy’s engineered genes and enhanced senses are woven into the narrative. However, the repetition of certain details left me wanting a bit more variety. Still, the clever twists kept me engaged, and I even found myself guessing one earlier than expected, which led to a delightful "aha" moment.
As the narrative unfolded, especially towards the 80% mark, I could see the careful layers of Remy’s growth, lending to a well-structured character arc that I was eager to see resolved. Overall, despite my hiccup with Netgalley, I am committed to finishing this sequel.
So, who will enjoy Swift the Storm, Fierce the Flame? Fans of engaging, richly built worlds and character-driven stories will find themselves captivated. As I anticipate diving back into this book in January, I can’t help but be excited about Meg Long’s next venture. After all, who doesn’t love a story that leaves you eager for more?
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