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“A dream dirty and bruised is better than no dream at all.”
Days of Blood and Starlight again showcases Taylor's distinct talent for prose. The way this books flows and reads is a masterpiece in and of itself. Almost lyrical, but still very real and to the point, her writing easily captivates. Add in unique characters and plot, and this series can easily be described as one of the best YA fantasy books around. No question.
The Sequel
Even though I have read Daughter of Smoke and Bone, it has been a little while. And diving back into Karou's world in Days of Blood and Starlight was challenging. Laini Taylor created such a diverse and interesting world that it took a while for my brain to adjust. However, the author did give enough hints and "recaps" for me to piece together and recall my memory. Taylor is still a weaver, and the plot slowly unfolds like a puzzle as each individual piece is placed. And then built upon in a later chapter till you finally have the whole picture.
The Romance (Zuzana and Mik)
Days of Blood and Starlight was very light on the romance. That would be the biggest difference from the first, and it was something that I missed a lot. There is an abundance of serious moments filled with action and times sorrow. Appropriate for this book, but heavy at times none the less. Zuzana and Mik did provide some breaks from this heaviness with laughter and a bit of romance. Both Zuzana and Mik are some of my favorite characters. I enjoyed every scene that they were in, laughed a lot, and just generally loved them both. (Can't wait to read their novella.)
The Action(Karou and Akiva)
Even though this isn't a romance, the novel still pulls at heart strings. Seeing this bleak world so full of pain and hate is gutting. The monsters and angels both have vile and frightening moments. Even at times gory. Karou and Akiva are on opposite sides of the war, both wanting redemption. Both fighting and doing their part for their side, even at times when it hurts themselves. Both characters are well developed, broken, but still holding on to hope.
I've not discussed much in the way of plot. But just like the first, Days of Blood and Starlight is book that is best opened without much previous knowledge and with an open mind. Everything about this book is magical from the writing to the plot. Days of Blood and Starlight was just as enchanting as the first, but the plot had a darker edge. Monsters, Angels, Wars, Death, Revenge, Life, Love, Hope, Friendship, Magic. This series weaves an intense journey highlighting the difference between hope and despair.
*Thanks to NetGalley and Little, Brown Books for Young Readers for providing this copy in exchange for an honest review.
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