A review by krobnovelist
Sandstorm by E.B. Brooks

adventurous dark 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? Yes

4.75

After reading the first book in this series, "Emissary," I didn't think things could get more complicated or intense. Boy, was I (thankfully) wrong! "Sandstorm" takes everything that was great about its predecessor, from intriguing characters to gut-wrenching emotional scenes and big-time plot twists, and ratchets it all up to 11. And that's not to mention the introduction of not one, but TWO new fantastic fantasy worlds to explore, in such vivid detail that they almost jump right off the page and make you question your own reality. "Sandstorm" is not a light read. There are real consequences for everyone involved as friends become enemies, and some enemies even become friends as all the characters you got to know from the first book get deeper and more complex and some new ones are introduced who are sure to be future stars. The series continues to explore the political, social, and psychological complexities of fantasy vs. reality in the best traditions of fiction like "Total Recall" and "The Matrix" in a gritty, intense NA format filled with relatable characters who will really make you feel all the twists and turns, break your heart, and then put it back together. A pitch-perfect follow-up to the original, and I can't wait to see what comes next!