The multi facets of this book make it compelling reading. A brilliant storyteller, Jeff Wheeler has done it again, created a believable alternative world filled with characters that come to life.

Nope.. I tried….The style didn’t resonate with me and the world building didn’t capture my attention. There are many readers who love this book so there is definitely an audience. Thank you to #netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.

4.5 Stars 🌟

One thing about Mr. Wheeler is that he excels at world building - in creating completely new and different worlds that are very character heavy with strong character relationships. THIS series, is a big departure from the other series that he has been known for (The Kingfountain World with its many different series, the World of Muirwood, the Harbinger series.....etc).

In this new world, we have been introduced to a brand new race - a magical race called the Aesir. The Aesir lived very long ago in a world of extreme cold. They built cities of ice carved from massive glaciers and were very long lived -basically immortal. At that time in the past- they did work along side humans (well, maybe along side is a misnomer. Let's just say they allowed humans to serve them... ) and sometimes shared some of their magic and technology. But something happened. No one from this time period knows what, as it was so long ago and there is no one alive anymore from that time period - but it shattered whatever good will existed between the two species.

So now, they go into a period of almost slumber or hibernation during the months of warmer weather but when they wake up - all bets are off and they begin to attack and try to eliminate the human race from their existence. A lot of this was unraveled in the first book- but it was still a bit confusing.

The magic system in this world is also unique - and again, in the first book I had a difficult time understanding the specifics of it. It is based on music, humming, notes. Basically, spells are sung.

Our FMC McKenna was born deaf. In this world, that is like being born with leprosy. People are afraid to let their children near deaf people. What makes everything so interesting is that McKenna is brilliant (and she comes from a family of extremely intelligent parents and siblings) they have done their best to treat her to live as normally as possible. Through their teachings, her work with linguists and her ability to lip read - you would never know that she could not hear. Unfortunately, though, magic has to be sung and that is the one thing that she has not yet been able to master because she has never ever heard a musical note and trying to sing - and in the right key....well, it is just really hard. BUT, she is tenacious, and I would not put it past her to knock everyone socks off when she breaks that barrier.

I book one she falls in love with and marries Professor Robinson Hawksley, he is also a brilliant scientist and is probably one of the brightest men in his field at this time. He is constantly inventing new inventions that stun their society. See, if that were the only problems going on - it would still be an intriguing book - but things are not what they seem.

Something is going on with McKenna. Something is going on at the Invisible College - which is the association of sorcerers who are supposed to be above reproach (yeah, I laughed while typing that too). The army is also involved in their war against the Aesir and have done many unethical things that they justify by saying they are trying to save lives. Sound familiar? That’s a common philosophy from soldiers in any country. The ends justify the means.

So, as this book unfolds, McKenna and Rob are learning that they are involved over their heads. There are MANY factions interested in them. Some to help them, but others to get rid of them, and even others to try to steal their work (and THEN kill them).

I didn't mean to go into that much detail, but there really is a lot going on. Mr. Wheeler has done a fantastic job with the characters in this book. Both of our MC's are easy to like and to root for. They are strong, smart and devious(ha! Love to see them being so underestimated). The secondary characters are also amazing - as they are willing to blindly follow their friends because they trust and have faith in what they are being told as McKenna and Rob get deeper and deeper into the craziness.

Sooo, yes, this story is complicated, but man is it addictive. As usual, Mr. Wheeler somehow creates a world that once the world is built in your mind, then it is time to just hang on for the ride.

I'm assuming this is going to be a trilogy, but honestly, I have no idea. I just know that things are at a point where I REALLY am looking forward to the next book :)

Thank you to NetGalley and 47North for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. This book will be out for publication on April 15, 2025.

Love it so much I hate it 🤣

Read at your own risk of:

1. Loving McKenna and Robinson, and how their marriage grows in this book. (love the very sweet chaste kisses and how the door stays closed- perfect for teens)

2. Loving the worldbuilding - Steampunk + Intelligences + an evil magic ice magic race + invention contests

3. Staying up all night because you have to know what happens next even though your friends already told you its book two so expect it to end on a cliff hanger

4. REALLY cool music magic that has you fascinated and wanting to study music

5. Wanting to have a dictionary on hand because they use big words that are really cool, but you need a dictionary

6. Very hateable villains that make you want to pull your hair out

7. ALL THE SUSPENSE - and loving it


8. Did I mention Robinson? love that guy. a very devoted husband who is just awesome.

9. Wickins + Clara - nough said

10. Because it's a Jeff Wheeler book and now you want to read everything else from the World's of Jeff Wheeler because there's gotta be something/somehow it ties into the rest of his books (I'm determined to find the little snippets)


⚠️Deaf representation. refer to authors note from book one - The Invisible College
⚠️Death (it's fantasy- but it's not gruesome)

After a painful two months of DNF 1 star novels, I was ever hopeful to get the advanced copy of a new Jeff Wheeler. Lately, I have boiled down to a very select group of reliable authors. It is very disheartening that list has dwindled as many authors cave to publishing pressure. With a very glad heart, I am happy to slap 4 stars on Violence of Sound.

Four star factors:
* The system of how intelligences drive techonolgy is an incredibly refreshing viewpoint. I'm also hooked on the arguments being had for patents versus creative development. How the research and inventions drive society makes this book relatable and tensions high so you just can't stop at one chapter.
* Music as the foundation for magic. Be it instruments or voices, magic cannot be created otherwise. This creates the incredibly real caste system. Talented musicians are ever escalating. Practiced individuals can climb the ranks with extreme effort and some prejudice. For those who are deaf, they are beneath society and treated as a subordinate class.
* Semblances. Are they alive or spirits? Are they parasites or symbiotes? So many questions about the Aesir in general actually. The curiosity is peaked, and I look forward to the finale.
* Military, government, and Invisible College. All systems are working independently towards the same goal yet get in each others' way because of the inevitable corruption of authority. With very real consequences to bystanders.

The fantasy concepts overlay many real spiritual doctrines giving the reader plenty to contemplate while still being an entertaining read. Plenty of ethical questions raised, but the author leaves the reader to come to their own conclusions. My sole reason from this being 5 stars are Robinson and McKenna. Big points for providing some of the most realistic newlywed depiction in fiction while remaining clean. There is just something about their personalities that just does not suit my reading preference. No fault to the writing or narrative--as I cannot reiterate enough how realistic their emotions in a new, rushed relationship are portrayed--just a personal gripe about them as characters.

Jeff Wheeler continues his excellent storytelling with the continuation of Robinson and McKenna's adventures. The mystery unfolds but keeps readers wondering how it will end. The book ends on a cliffhanger; I can't wait to find out what happens next. Well done

4.45 stars, rounded for goodreads.

We continue on from where The Invisible College leaves off, diving deeper into the politics of war with the Aesir (and those trying to thwart or otherwise influence it). Not to mention the semblance hunting and confusion because they could be anybody! I wouldn't say this is incredibly fast paced, but it was steady with some heart pounding moments throughout. The last page of the book gave me questions! But that's how you pull the people in.

This book proved to be a great commentary on the insidiousness of corruption of power and the pursuit of truth despite. (General Colsterworth's gave very interesting insight into this.) There are words of wisdom sprinkled throughout this book which resonates with me, both while reading and upon reflection. This story holds so much character which I do find dear.

The magic system continues to be intriguing and unique. It's interesting to see different facets from the intelligences themselves and their personalities to the music that summons them to the magical inventions that harness them to the still mysterious artifacts. I think those will play a big role in book 3!

The relationship between Robinson and McKenna, now in the context of marriage, was very sweet, even while dealing with some VERY major issues in their relationship. The writing is clean (wholesome, some breathless kissing, light suggestive writing), but I think the level of writing is perfect for the story. I enjoyed the focus on the little touches of affection between husband and wife which are rarely talked about but paint a picture of intimacy and are especially necessary for one who is deaf. Just like with The Invisible College, I was amazed with how well written McKenna's pov's were written in the context of her deafness. Her lip reading is quite the superpower, though. It was hard to read about the discrimination toward her (and others), but it was necessary to include and was written in a very natural way vs a hit-you-over-the-head kind of way. Much appreciated. Jeff Wheeler is a wonderful writer and excels at the subtlety.

Thank you to Jeff Wheeler, 47North, and netgalley for a copy of the book to read and review. I will await with bated breath for the third book to come available! All opinions are my own.

Oh my, that was so good! Robinson and McKenna are back and fighting against greater powers than them from every side!

In book 1 The Invisible College McKenna and Robinson fight against the immortal enemy, the Aesir, head on, but in this book it's all about subterfuge. It's fighting dirty, it's testing ties, it's figuring out who to trust, all the while preparing for winter where the tangible enemy awakens with their plagues and frontal attacks. Even as a reader you are suspicious of everyone, since we learned in book 1 that a narrator can be unreliable.

Who do WE trust as the reader? Who will gut US or stab US in the back in the next book?

Jeff Wheeler is an amazing storyteller to provoke these emotions and sense of paranoia.

And that cliffhanger? Oh dear....

The second book in the Invisible College Series and to really get into the story I had to wait a second, that is to say that the book starts with a slower pace which may ring some alarm bells but good things come to those who wait, and wait I did.
Once the switch flipped there was no going back and I was strapped in for the ride .
The world is both complex , intriguing and yet easy to follow– a treat for us visual thinkers , and there is engaging prose holding the book's hand throughout.
In conclusion I would recommend this series to someone who wishes to slow things down a bit, and escape for a while, and this specific book was such a perfect mid season read.

This book was amazing. The author builds such an amazingly complicated, yet easy to follow world. The characters are easy to connect with and the story pulls you in. Waiting until September for the next book is going to be difficult with where the story left off.

The Violence of Sound by Jeff Wheeler is the second installment of The Invisible College series. The second book had such a slow start, that I considered abandoning it, but once the switch flipped and pace picked up, I could not put it down, though I was tempted to throw my eReader against a wall, only because

The narration by Kate Rudd was extremely well done. It was engaging and she was able to give each character a unique voice, making the story easy to follow.

Thank you to Brilliance Publishing | Brilliance Audio and 47North for the opportunity to listen to this ALC and read the eARC. All opinions are my own.

Book Rating: 4 Stars
Audiobook Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Apr 15 2025

Tags:
#47North
#TheViolenceOfSound
#TheInvisibleCollege
#JeffWheeler
# KateRudd
#YarisBookNook
#netgalley

This series is brilliant! Frequently I find the second book in trilogies to be more of a placeholder, filling space until the conclusion. THAT IS NOT THE CASE HERE! This book takes the brilliance of the first book and adds layer upon layer of intrigue, character development, and story. It's as if the author has decided that as readers we are moving up a level in the Invisible College and are therefore ready to know more.

The writing is smart. The storytelling is engaging and character driven. The world building and the creative magic system are unique, intriguing, and well fleshed out. I love the intelligence and sense of morality that the author has given to the characters. They act with honor and integrity in a world where those things can be lacking.

The Violence of Sound (the title of this book is profound) is a stellar read. It will have you turning pages late into the night and will ultimately leave you satisfied, yet thirsting for the final book in this riveting and imaginative trilogy.

I listened to the audiobook version after reading it and I would highly recommend it. The narration is engaging and emotive and the characters really come to life.

*Thanks to NetGalley and the author for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This story was a page turner, I hated to put it down to do anything else. There are details that help the reader picture the scenes, world, and characters but done so skillfully you see clearly as the story/plot progresses quickly but smoothly. Interesting world, as society encompasses old world horse and buggies with magical lights and trains that hover. The subject of deaf culture is explored. I appreciated the insights into an area that I had limited knowledge. Mr. Wheeler brings the challenges of deaf people to light as well as historical ignorance. McKenna and Robison’s development grow as they face challenges. Love the absent minded yet brilliant character of Robinson as well as his dedication to integrity. McKenna, always striving to achieve her goals. A fight between good and evil they face together. Kept me guessing the entire time about what would happen next. I always try to determine where the story will go and solve the mystery (love a good mystery) but was constantly surprised. Some questions get answered, that I had from the first book in this series, The Invisible College, which I recommend reading first because the characters grow so much along the way. I would definitely recommend. I’ve been a fan of this author’s books for a while now. Enjoyed the originality of this world he created and would recommend. Happy reading!!

This second book in the Invisible College series picks up where the previous book in the series left off as Robinson prepares to present his invention. The author helpfully provides enough context to serve as a refresher for those who haven't read The Invisible College recently, but subtly enough that it doesn't detract from the story.

Once again, the world-building is top notch. In this world, magic is controlled through music and humans are at war with creatures known as the Aesir. The story alternates between the point of view of inventor Robinson and that of his wife MacKenna, who is deaf. The concept of a deaf person in a world where sound is vital is deftly and sensitivity presented.

A recommended read for fans of Jeff Wheeler.

Thank you to Netgalley and 47North for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Jeff Wheeler does it again with The Violence of Sound, the thrilling second installment in The Invisible College series. This book absolutely must be read in order, as it picks up right where the first left off and dives even deeper into the rich, mysterious world he’s crafted.

McKenna and Robinson shine in this installment—their relationship continues to grow in such a compelling and heartfelt way, and I loved every moment of it. Their dynamic adds so much emotional depth to a story already packed with adventure and intrigue.

The world building is, once again, top-tier. Wheeler introduces an evil ice-magic race that adds an eerie intensity to the stakes. Add to that a steady stream of creative inventions, pulse-pounding suspense, and the unique and fascinating system of music magic, and you’ve got a fantasy that feels both fresh and immersive.

I also really appreciated the deaf representation—it’s handled with care and authenticity, enriching the story and giving it even more emotional resonance.

And then… that cliffhanger! I was on the edge of my seat by the end, and now I’m counting down the days until the final book in the trilogy.

If you enjoy inventive fantasy, a touch of romance, and stories that keep you guessing, you’ll love The Violence of Sound. I devoured it and can’t wait to see how it all wraps up!

I love that this book picks up where the first book ended and that it gives you reminders of characters and events when they occur of what happened in the first book so you're not lost. It is slower than the first book but it still hold a lot of mystery and intrigue. I love the words Jeff uses in these series and I feel like I'm learning as I'm getting immersed into this world. All the world building he does is phenomenal and I truly wish we could live in this society where honor and honestly is upheld in the highest degree. We also need a moment to praise McKenna's father because regardless of his position in society and how society sees his daughter and the deaf community, he stands up for them and for Rob and we need more of him! I feel bad for Rob and McKenna because they're relationship has been anything but normal and easy, so why should their honeymoon be any different? But this book dives into some of the unanswered questions from the first book but it introduces more questions I need answers to. It just keeps you diving into that rabbit hole for more answers. The twist I did not see and the ending! Ugh, book 3 could not come any sooner!

3.5 stars
Good second book in a series, it adds characters other elmenta to further build the world. I kinda wish it gave a little more about the kings dauthwr but obviously that reveal will come in the next book.

I was so glad to discover Jeff Wheeler and the magical worlds he has created in his books. I’ve read every one. Usually, I finish them very quickly and find myself looking forward to the next one. I am disappointed when I finish a series and must look for something else to read.

I’ve found this series to be a bit different. It took me a minute to get into The Invisible College, the first book in the series. But, suddenly, to my surprise, I had finished it and was looking forward to the next installment. The Violence of Sound did not disappoint. The characters are well-developed. The dialogue and story are interesting. Rob continues to show his genius with magic and his quirky personality is engaging. What will he think of next? Plus, I’m very interested in discovering what happened to McKenna in her near drowning experience. More is revealed in this book on both fronts and I’m really enjoying this new world that Jeff has created.

This one has pulled me in even deeper into and I can’t wait for the next one. Highly recommended!

I received this book in exchange for an honest review (which I was super excited about, as Jeff Wheeler is one of my favorite authors!)

One of Wheeler's talents is creating rich stories that manage to remain "clean" without sacrificing intrigue, excitement, or complex ideas. "The Violence of Sound" is no exception! Picking up where "The Invisible College" left off, this immersive, engrossing narrative continues to follow characters living in a universe with elements of steam punk, sci-fi, and regency.

Spoilers aren't my style; I'll leave it to you to discover the plot on your own.

If I have any criticism, it's occasionally-wordy phrasing and abundance of passive voice--but that may only bother me because I edit books for a living. It's nowhere near distracting enough to keep me from devouring every single book Wheeler puts out, as he weaves words and worlds that capture and enchant the imagination.

(My Amazon review is still pending, but here's my profile: https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/amzn1.account.AEEKHR6KS44L2EZIFSFRZKXTJ32A?
GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/7491626994)

The main protagonist, Hawksley, is a sorcerer and inventor who is married to an intelligent noble woman who may or may not be entirely human. Together they are unraveling military cover-ups, discovering ancient artifacts, and inventing life changing magics. But how deep does the corruption go?? Jeff Wheeler is a master at creating entire worlds, and he doesn't disappoint with this one. I especially love how he alludes to an ancient powerful human-like race, known as the Aesir, and even now after reading the second book I know JUST ENOUGH about this race to understand they are powerful and dangerous. However, there is SO MUCH more to their history than Jeff has allowed us to know yet!
This fast-paced cliffhanger will have you on the edge of your seat and chugging caffeine to keep you up all night to finish. And when you're done, you can join me in the line to read the third book when it is released.