Reviews

I preferred the first book, but this is a solid continuation. I don't necessarily like the trope of "one character conceals vital information because they are afraid to tell the other," and in this case, it seemed to resolve itself too easily. The ending also felt slightly rushed and like everything just happened. I did like the expansion of the worldbuilding and also getting to meet Mateo's parents. This is a good duology that feels immersive and is a nice escape.

andrealage's review against another edition

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adventurous medium-paced

3.5

valvallie's review

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Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Diverse cast of characters? Yes

3.75

delz's review

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adventurous dark emotional 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? No

4.5

Mateo and Chela are where we left them in book one. They’ve just reached the island of San Madrigal and are about to go exploring. There are multitudes of secrets and many foes to confront. At one point the pair split up and Mateo heads back home to Brooklyn. His parents have returned, and his father seems to be siding with the Pirates. Then there is a shift in power and the police who have not had jurisdiction within their community are suddenly hunting Mateo and his friends and family. Along with the adventure and romance, comes subtle current social commentary. last Canto of the Dead is a fun, action packed adventure story.

ljg765's review

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adventurous dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

paigereitz's review

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adventurous dark emotional hopeful inspiring reflective tense fast-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? It's complicated

4.25

This was an excellent sequel to the first book. It was also a bit gorier and more violent, which was hard for me at times, but it was well-done and well-executed. There were times when the shifting perspectives were harder for me to track, or that it was like I couldn't remember what had happened from one POV to the next time that POV came up, but those were mostly mild challenges. The story was gripping and intense. And I love, love, love the casual LGBTQ representation in this story, including a poly relationship and a nonbinary character, neither of which is made a "big deal." It just is part of the story, which was excellent.

friss_zucker's review against another edition

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challenging dark emotional hopeful tense fast-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? N/A

5.0

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