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A review by natashaleighton_
Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi

adventurous dark emotional 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? Yes

4.0

Set three weeks after the events of Children of Blood and Bone, the second instalment in Tomi Adyemi’s bestselling Legacy of Orïsha series ups the ante by plunging us headfirst into the action (and even more danger.) As escalating tensions between the Orïsha and Maji, has them teetering on precipice of Civil War.

The worldbuilding was once again wonderfully vivid, capturing the depth and poignancy of our characters, and the heart wrenchingly atmospheric events they find themselves in.

With soo much tension, and emotions running high, Zelie and Amari find themselves frustrated by the decisions being made around them. 

So it’s no wonder that Zelie, who has seen nothing but violence and oppression due to her heritage, would butt heads with Amari, who’s privilege and naive sense of optimism have her hoping for peaceful (non violent) resolution. 

War is quite a heavy subject to tackle, but Adeyemi explores its complexites with skillful confidence (and even delves into the ethics and morality surrounding the decisions on both sides.) It’s not an easy undertaking, especially when there are soo many opinions and people in play. But she navigates it soo well. Which really added even more depth to the individual journeys (both physical and emotional) our POV characters undertake.

Though, some of the clashes and arguments did get a bit frustrating at times in their repetitiveness. However, the expansion of the lore, magic system and world in general (as well as all the shocking twists in between) definitely kept things interestingly pacey. 

I don’t think I can say much else without huge spoilers but I will say this was definitely the most emotionally impactful and devastating instalment in the series that I’ve read soo far. 

And though I’m eager to start the last book (especially after THAT cliffhanger ending), I’m also a little nervous as to where it’s going to take us (and Zélie, Amari and Tzain) next. 

Also, thanks to Pan Macmillan/ Macmillan Children’s Books for the stunning PB copy.
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