Tara Sim does it again.
I will say that at the beginning I was confused. I wish I would have done a reread of City of Dusk before reading this. I do love that you get the multiple POVs in this series. My ADHD did start acting up something fierce while reading this book. While I finished City of Dusk in one sitting this one I had to take constant breaks from the book to come back. This is not the books fault at all. If I had done this in one sitting my review would probably have been lower becuase there would be a lot of information I was missing as my brain was just not wanting to take in the content of the book.

I do like that we had the main cast back and that there are new secondary characters added to travel alongside the main characters. After the end of the City of Dusk all the characters are basically ripped apart. Each trying to accomplish a different task . But all trying to save Nexus and their people. I really can’t wait for The Dawn Throne. Before it releases next year I will definitely be reading and listening to the audiobooks to refresh myself!

Back in...well more realms than last time. The heirs are split apart and this story is multiple POVs, sometimes converging, but mostly as each deals with the consequences of their decisions from the first book.

Just like the Gods of all stories, these ones are petty, vengeful and generally use mortals for sport (and abandon them if it doesn't suit them). So the story here really focuses more on the aspects of how these humans are forced to reckon with a power they didn't ask for, and responsibility of kingdoms and realms foresaken by the gods. No one (except maybe Saya and Brailee) are totally likeable, each making frustrating and horrifying decisions (and some a little repetitive) but there's growth. And the ending doesn't disappoint and sets up the next book to be a wild ride.

3.5 stars only bc it can be very dense and confusing with consistent references back to the first book (do not read this w/on first reading that bc nothing will make sense) and repetitive narrative that drags it down a bit. But overall, it doesn't suffer from second book syndrome. Recommended.

Tara Sim's "The Midnight Kingdom" takes readers on an epic journey across realms as the four noble heirs find themselves scattered after a cataclysmic battle to save the city of Nexus. This gripping fantasy novel is filled with adventure, danger, and a desperate fight to restore balance in the universe.

In the realm of eternal night, Noctus, Taesia and Nikolas, from House Lastrider and House Cyr respectively, discover that they are not alone. The god of light, unpredictable and menacing, has followed them, driven by a thirst for cosmic control. Sim deftly weaves a tale of suspense as the characters grapple with their own powers and face off against a god hell-bent on destruction.

Meanwhile, Risha, the peacekeeping necromancer from House Vakara, finds herself in Mortri, the realm of death. She must navigate treacherous territory and confront the challenges of a world where spirits roam free and the living are not welcomed. Sim paints a vivid and eerie picture of Mortri, creating an atmosphere that adds depth to Risha's journey.

Angelica, the determined elementalist of House Mardova, is entrusted with the crucial task of preserving Nexus in the realm of Vitae. However, she carries a hidden burden—an illness left by her god. As she embarks on a diplomatic mission, her personal struggles intertwine with the fate of her family and kingdom. Sim adeptly portrays Angelica's inner conflicts, infusing the story with emotional depth.

Throughout the novel, Sim introduces a cast of intriguing characters, both allies and adversaries, who add richness to the narrative. The relationships between the heirs, as they reunite and face new challenges, evolve and deepen, highlighting the complexities of loyalty, trust, and sacrifice.

"The Midnight Kingdom" is a page-turner, with Sim's vibrant prose and imaginative world-building captivating readers from start to finish. The stakes are high, and the suspense is palpable as the gods grow stronger, threatening to tip the balance of power. Sim masterfully balances action-packed scenes with introspective moments, allowing readers to connect with the characters on multiple levels.

While the novel excels in many aspects, there are moments where the pacing feels slightly uneven, with certain sections moving at a faster pace than others. Additionally, some plot points could have been further explored to enhance the overall depth of the story. Despite these minor criticisms, "The Midnight Kingdom" remains a compelling read.

In conclusion, Tara Sim's "The Midnight Kingdom" offers an enthralling and thrilling adventure that will captivate fans of fantasy. With its well-crafted characters, intricate world-building, and a plot brimming with tension, this book is a worthy addition to any fantasy lover's library. Prepare to be immersed in a war for survival and witness the heirs' struggle against the gods' growing power.

This book did not disappoint. Like in City of Dusk you might get overwhelmed with the different POVs and storylines, but Tara Sim weaves them together very well. I love how the characters had their own journey and personality development apart from each other. Each developed who they really are and what they really wanted, not just what they were molded to be, and became stronger for it, and they’re power too because of it. I became invested on the secondary characters too, like the siblings of the main characters. There’s a whole lot of plots lines and realms, but I didn’t really get lost. The writing was really good on guiding you through all of it. You just just have to be patient to see it through and it all weaves together.

Oh I am in LOVE! I received this eARC from NetGalley for my unbiased opinion. This is just…. Wow! The character development, world building…. I cannot wait to read other books from the author! Thank you!