A review by gabmc
Paper and Fire by Rachel Caine

3.0

I enjoyed this book, but not as much as the first in the series. The series is set in an alternate world, and I can't quite figure out the time period. There are steampunk elements, which make me think of the past but there are also alchemical and magical elements which seem more futuristic. The world is ruled by the Great Library of Alexandria. Jess Brightwell and his friends have just finished their training and been allocated to their roles within the Library. Jess discovers that his friend Thomas did not die in an accident as they were told by the Library. He asks his friends whether they would be with him in a mission to rescue Thomas - but this would mean going against the Library and leaving their lives, families, and friends behind. This story is mainly set in Alexandria and Rome, and the next book in the series seems like it will introduce a new city - Philadelphia.