This book was also one of the ones that I just couldn't get into after book 1, but I'm glad I tried it out! I hope that later, I could give this book another shot and maybe I will end up liking it too!

I read the first book in this trilogy, which I loved, but Book 2 takes the story to another level entirely. The author continues a gripping plot with lots of mystery and action, but also devles much more deeply into the psyche of each main character. The narrative covers a number of heavy issues (suicide, rape, drug use), but the author is empathetic and compassionate in how he deals with these and, ultimately, despite the heaviness of the topics, the reader is left with a feeling of hope that things will get better. I really enjoy the multiple points of view (one per section of narrative), the amazing depth in the world-building, the distinctiveness of the characters, and the expert use of plot and character hooks at the end of each chapter that make you want to keep reading. This has been a superb series so far and I can't wait for Book 3 to find out where it all ends!

I was eagerly awaiting the release of At the End of Everything, after absolutely loving the first book in this trilogy. I wasn’t disappointed, this story completely exceeded my expectations. It’s as good, if not better, than the first book.
Although I recently re-read When Darkness Descends (Book 1) in anticipation of reading Book 2, I still appreciated and enjoyed the recap of the story so far, which is written from a surprising perspective! The subsequent prologue was especially intriguing with just enough teasers and hints about the story to come.
I really liked that chapter 1 picked up exactly where Book 1 ended (literally on a ‘cliffhanger’), and the action and story development continued at a good pace. There are some harrowing events, but these only add value and strength to the story, and they’re written extremely well. The fact that the main character, Tom, is not the consummate hero is a real strength of this story. Although he’s growing more resilient, he’s still got anxieties and vulnerabilities, and this makes him very believable and relatable. I was captivated by Rosalie’s story, and am hoping she appears in Book 3, because I wanted to keep reading about her. Melinda is completely lovable and offers some light-hearted moments!
G. W. Lücke is an outstanding storyteller. He interweaves and develops the stories of multiple characters, from different points of view very effectively and without losing the reader. The world of Enthilen is so well described and developed further in this second book, that it’s very easy to visualise. He’s also extremely skilled at balancing difficult, conflicting and intense events with lighter moments and funny characters. I can’t wait for Book 3!

This second book in the series really takes off, adding depth and intrigue to the plot and a huge cast of characters. The complexities of the world our main character, Tom, has found himself in reach epic proportions as we enter new parts of Ostamp, some even darker than I would have expected after reading When Darkness Descends. You do need to read book one of the trilogy first, but it is well worth getting on board. I can't wait for book 3.