Honestly, I didn't think I could get any more wrapped up in Malik Baron's world than I already was but Bones at the Crossroads came in HOTTT and with a bang!! I was happy to find out for a fact that my predictions were correct however I'll keep that to myself so as to not spoil anything for anyone else.

I loved that we got a chance to see more of Malik at Caiman U and we learned more about his circle of friends. The comedic relief throughout the book was entertaining and was BLACKITY, BLACK, BLACK!!!

"You got knocked the F out!!! Biiiatch!" because Malik Baron showed us that he really is 'BOUT DAT LIFE!!' I can't wait to find out how all of this ends in Book 3. Guess I'll just sit here and impatiently wait...........

Loved the characters and watch Malik grow into his own. We'll written but felt story went on much longer the needed.

Before starting this book, I ended up seeing a Reddit post discussing how LaDarrion Williams scroffed at the Legendborn series. I was shocked because the only reason I even read the first book, Blood at the Root, was because the book description on Goodreads says...Enroll in this fresh fantasy debut with the emotional power of Legendborn and the redefined ancestral magic of Lovecraft Country. That made me sad because I enjoy the Legendborn series. I instantly started to side eye LaDarrion. Why would he do that to another fellow black fantasy author? Especially when he goes on about young black male representation in fantasy series and black boy joy. So do black girls not need to be representation too? All of this was making me dread even starting Bones at the Crossroads. Plus there were also comments on how he writes the female characters. So I decided before I DNF (or more accurately do not start because I had only read the prologue) this book, let me try to find out what was really said.

So I read through the reviews of the first book and in hindsight, the complaints about the overuse of AAVE, dated language and misogynoir are correct. The book is told from the main character's point of view, so maybe the misogynoir is coming from Malik and not the author's actual views? I looked up a few things about him taking jabs at Tracy Deonn. I mostly just saw people saying they remember him saying something on a Live but no one was showing screenshots so I never could confirm or deny. I think he may have just been tired or people saying he copied her book (which they are nothing alike other than MC are black and it's magic fantasy, both have completely different storylines).

Okay, after all this and short break to clear my mind... I started Bones at the Crossroads.

Malik is still disrespectful. He does exhibit some growth, but to his defense, this picks up where the last book ended so not much time has passed. I really loved the last 25-30% of the book.

With all my apprehensions from the first book, I'm still intrigued enough to know what will happen in the 3rd book of the series. I didn't notice as much misogyny this time. But it was still black trauma > black joy and there was no improvement in the language.

Thank you to Random House and NetGalley for this e-arc!

First off, let me say I enjoyed this book more than the first one. I do feel like there was a lot of filler that honestly wasn't necessary, but I didn't feel like it took away from the story too much. I do find the language to be so unrealistic. I get that's how younger people talk nowadays, but I live in Louisiana, and I've NEVER heard it laid on so thick. I didnt mind it sometimes but other times I was just like "come on."

This book definitely had character growth, a stronger and even more interesting storyline, BUT THAT ENDING. It just...ended so quick. I have no idea where this storyline is going to go.

I loved the character growth from Malik throughout this book. There were moments when he was tapping into the channel with his mama that had me ready to throw my kindle but overall I really enjoyed this book. I can not wait to see where LaDarrion takes this series!!! Also that little bomb had me clutching my pearls because why did it take so long for it to come out 😭

I loved this book inside and out! It’s so amazing to read about people that look like me in a fantasy world. I also really liked how the magic system touched on historical topics that are often not taught or twisted. There were many times when I went down a rabbit whole of research after I read a reference in this book. I highly recommend this book to everyone but especially my fellow young black folks.

This review pains me however one thing I have always said is that I am going to be honest. I was throughly disappointed by this book. I loved Blood at the Root so much and was waiting for this book. Majority of the time I found myself rolling my eyes and being disinterested in what was happening. I felt like there were too many concepts and check marks that the author was trying to meet that it took away from the main story elements that were introduced in book one. It also felt like the author waThere were chapters like the strolling that I was just wondering why are we going step by step through their actions for so long? If this was a movie understandable but this is a book that the things included should have some larger purpose. Don't get me started on the reveal at the end of parentage, I was annoyed with how it was done and honestly didn't make sense to me. The beginning and end were entertaining but did not make up for me the whole rest of the book. Overall it left me feeling not interested in what happens next with Malik.

This was an engaging and well-written book that kept my interest throughout. The author delivered strong ideas and storytelling, with memorable moments that made it stand out. While there were a few areas that could have been expanded or polished further, overall it was an enjoyable and worthwhile read. I would recommend it to others looking for a thoughtful and rewarding experience.

This was a good sequel. I love the audiobook. We did get some resolutions & questions answered. The ending confused me, but also has me anticipating the next book.

Thank you so much for this ARC! I was thrilled to enjoy Malik's growth in this novel, and I appreciated learning more about his family. This sequel truly made me yearn for Black youth's ability to live in a world where they can explore the fullness of their gifts. I really hope this is picked up to become a series or film franchise ASAP.

This sequel hit me with all the reasons I loved Blood at the Root, but it also took the story deeper, darker, and more emotional. Malik at Caiman University continues to be such a compelling protagonist—he’s powerful, yes, but also deeply human. I loved how Williams captures that mix of teenage vulnerability and magical destiny.

The HBCU setting makes this series stand out in such a powerful way. It’s fresh, unapologetically Black, and layered with history and culture that feels lived-in and authentic. The secret society Malik joins gave me chills—mysterious, a little sinister, and rooted in heritage in a way that made me lean forward in my seat.

Bones at the Crossroads is a fantastic continuation of Malik Baron’s story. After Blood at the Root, in which he was discovering so much about himself and his family, starting college at a magical hbcu, and experiencing a tragic loss, now in Bones at the Crossroads, it’s time for the fall semester at Caiman U, which means more classes, homecoming, trying to cope after such extreme loss and betrayal, and making some new connections as well. In this story, Malik is learning more about his newfound powers, connecting more deeply to his ancestry, and also just trying to be a kid because he was forced to grow up way too early. This story had strong themes of healing, power, the necessity for change and inclusion, and the complexity of forgiveness. It was so beautifully written with some insane twists that I did not see coming. I was so impressed with this second book, and I cannot wait for the conclusion to be released!

I really enjoyed book 2 and revisiting this world and the characters. Malik has been put through the ringer but it has been very emotional and rewarding watching his character growth and getting to experience him growing into a more vulnerable and emotionally mature young man. The ending did leave me a little confused even though I know there's going to be a book 3 I just wish we would gotten a little more with the ending. I love the introduction of Dom and her character as well as Uncle John Henry. Chancellor Taron has a lot of making up to do and there were some moments I really wanted to smack some sense into him. The world building was really enjoyable and the descriptions of the Campus and the different campus events made me feel like I was there with the characters. I really can wait for Book 3 to see how it all plays out for Malik and everyone. I'm still not sure about the mom. I missed Mama Aye but I did love how even though she was physically gone she was still very much present throughout the book. This one took a lot of twist and turns so I'm just anxious to know what is going to happen next.

Sadly, I had too much expectation going into this. I enjoyed the first book very much. The storyline was drawn out for certain parts of the books. It didnt feel like a sequel to the first book, it just felt it was too wordy and longwinded. I wanted more of the action and plot to take place. I rather have had the discovery of the father at the beginning or middle. Also, more action of trying to stop the mom from giving the Bokar this deal she made. It wasn't until well into 80-90 percentof the book we are finding out things that could have been worked out through the whole book and resolved just to build up to the third book. A duology is just fine. And yes it really took me this long to read/listen to this book.

I absolutely love love this book. No spoilers but this adventure is worth it. LaDarrion writes in a way that gives a huge nod to the south. If you’re from the south you will enjoy all the little tid bits of southern charm and sayings. Can’t wait for the third book.

hanks to NetGalley & Random House Children's for the ARC of Bones at the Crossroads! This was a highly anticipated release for me after reading book one of the series "Blood at the Root". When I tell you...the character development was EVERYTHING in this book! I love the growth we see in Malik as he takes on new challenges that threaten his existence and family legacy.

The drama and "Tea" that this book has was so good and even though it had a current vibe to it it did not feel forced or over done. This is a really great YA book! 10/10 would recommend!

Thanks to NetGalley & Random House Children's for the copy in exchange for an honest review.

A great sequel! I really like that it picks up where the first book left off--with all the drama and discovery of magic continuing. Malik is a great young protagonist that struggles with the family drama and his magic manifesting in ways he can't control.

I like how LaDarrion fleshes out the side characters--even Malik's friends. One of them ranted at Malik which was fair but damn, I was really rooting for both of them in the argument. They were both right and wrong. I won't spoil but it was a pretty cool dramatic moment and both friends came out all the stronger for it.

My favorite part is Malik getting a therapist! I don't think I've seen that in a YA book recently--usually too much drama happens and they genuinely have no time for self-reflection, but I"m glad LaDarrion had Malik start therapy (dude REALLY needs it poor kid has been through too much!!) and I felt like it enriched the story more.

Usually I hate love triangles but honestly LaDarrion did a great job handling it and it felt messy and oh so real on everyone's part. Neither girl was sidelined and both had time to flesh themselves out beyond just being "Malik's boyfriend" or something stupid like that. LaDarrion knew what he was doing and crafted it well--so props to him for that. :)

The magic continues to be badass and I love learning more about the history behind it and meeting more magical characters!

Can't wait for the next book!!

I loved it and it’s still as good as book 1. The culture and drama had me hooked. Then we have more of his mother’s past can’t wait for book 3.

This was a fun read. Representation matters. I think this is perfect for the younger reader. I had to read the first book before I could read this one. I loved the magic and the characters in this novel. I understand this is book two so I look forward to reading the next one. Definitely a fun universe full of adventure and twists.

Bones at the Crossroads
LaDarrion Williams

Whew!

Malik’s life has evolved in such a short amount of time. I’m still scarred from book one. I’m so sad that Mama Aya is really gone. Although her physical presence is no more, the embodiment of who she was is felt in the covering she has left behind.

A lot of answers were provided in book two. Although this is true, even more drama is unearth in his current semester. It’s almost impossible for me to make this review without revealing some things, but I’ll keep the spoilers, if any, inconsequential.

I love the relationship that is being cultivated with Malik and Dominique. Alexis really broke Malik‘s heart. As he tries to nurse that heartache, he’s still able to find the value in who Dominique is. The trust they foster is exactly what he needs in his life.

While he has to combat the normal exhaustion of being a college student. He also has to deal with the impending threat that his mother is. He is forced to conceal so much in efforts to protect the façade that the university is safe.

Malik is anchored in his desire to stop his mother. She is stronger than ever before. She has made too many promises that unfortunately, she can’t adhere to. Those broken promises have cost her dearly and continue to drive a wedge between her and Malik.

I respect the fact the Malik took therapy seriously. In this world of mystical beings who can have anything with the snap of their fingers therapy is marked as a pivotal resource in helping him unpack all of the built-up frustration. It’s something he desperately needed.

After giving myself time to ruminate on what I read, I’ve come to the conclusion that I have no idea what to expect for book three. But one things for sure, there will be some form of reckoning. Hopefully, this reckoning will usher in not only the conjurors, but the other magical beings that live in the shadows of that world.

Thank you NetGalley and Random House Children’s.

** I did purchase the audio to heighten my experience. Don’t overthink it. Buy it.

#readandtellwithshantel #LaDarrionWilliams #BonesattheCrossroads