Mountain of Shadows (City of Words #2) by Steven Carroll

*I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review*

First Impression: I really liked the first book, looking forward to seeing what happens to Alpha and his friends!

Characters: The hallmark of good character development is how much I end up caring about them as actual humans. I cried and was scared, was happy and hopeful, and rooted for my new friends throughout this second installment.

World Building: Fully realized dystopian is not easy, but Mountain of Shadows pulls it off. Without giving too much away, I could fully imagine the scenes unfolding in all their intensity.

Writing Style: Carroll weaves a story for all ages, with the natural ease of a true writer.

What I Enjoyed: Whenever I leave my surroundings and fall into the pages of a book, I know I've found a new favorite. The scene descriptions are palpable and the tech is believable, something I don't always feel in these kinds of books.

Deal Benders: I would like to see the relationship unfold between the main characters Alpha and Theta at this point in the series. I think the YA crowd calls for a bit of romance and hope to break up the bleakness. I would also like to know more about the "why" at this juncture. The inevitable part in every dystopian tale when we find out what made humanity turn on itself.

Overall Rating: 5 stars because it was far beyond the first book, and I wish book #3 was already out so I can see what happens!

For Fans Of: The Hunger Games, Divergent, The Giver