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captaincogs 's review for:

The Blood Phoenix by Amber Chen
4.25
adventurous mysterious tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

This is such a different vibe from Of Jade and Dragons, and while saying that might scare readers who loved the first book, it shouldn't as this story still includes all your favorite characters, friendships, and betrayal. 

It was a bit difficult to get past the fact that the book begins two years later. Ying wants to forget her past, marry a man from Lauret, and leave her life in Fei behind, but when The Blood Phoenix strikes Lauret, it gives Ye-yang the perfect opportunity to bring Ying back to Fei (and his life). 

This story takes you across land and sea, through Ying's point of view and Nian's point of view, and a whole lot of trust issues. It's truly a fun adventure/ 

I had no idea this series was actually a duology until the end of the book, which left me with so many questions. However, I know some of the best stories end with questions unanswered, so I will have to hope and pray that Amber Chen writes a short story or bonus chapter in the future. 

Thank you, Penguin Teen, for sending me a copy of The Blood Phoenix!