I could not wait for this book! Let me tell you, it was worth it and I sob because it just came out and book 3 isn’t heeerrreee!
The ancestral wisdom and representation was heavy in this book. Then there’s the representation of the LGBTQ as well. This was just a great book aabout overcoming challenges, relationships and making hard choices. I just love seeing these kinds of books for young adults, it’s great.
Malik and his friends really grew and came together in this book I can't wait for book 3!!

Thank you to the publisher for providing an ARC. I will be annotating a physical copy of the novel.

This was an amazing follow-up in the Blood at the Root series and I'm very excited to continue reading. At first, the story felt a little slow and we became reacclimated with the characters and how they moved forward after the explosive end of book 1. I enjoyed being in Malik's head and watching him adjust to having more family than he previously realized and learning how to be a kid. I also enjoyed seeing him process the deep losses of love and family. Malik is not afraid to feel or express his feelings, whether it's joy, anger, or grief, and this was so refreshing to see a heterosexual black boy in a fantasy world, be his full unapologetic self.

Though the main plot line is continued from the previous installment, this world of the magical college is further expanded and only adds to the experience of reading this story. While the world is being set ablaze, Malik is still a student, he's still a teenager with friends and the nuances that come with those relationships, he's still navigating young love, and learning how to manage all the responsibilities that have been placed on his shoulders because of his lineage. I will say, there were some points of the story where I felt so tired for Malik. I kept wanting him to catch a break and not always feel like he didn't belong or was an outsider in one way or another. I just want him to be happy and have joy without it being snatched from him in ways that always make him question his values as a person or his status with others.

ps. That miserable witch (she does not deserve the title of Empress) can eat 10 rocks.

Yoooo, whatttt. This is exactly what we have been needing to fill the YA Fantasy space with magic. This sequel to Blood at the Root is even stronger than the first book, which I already loved. The struggles that Malik goes through in this book are so very unreal and yet rooted in the real life struggles of a young black man trying to make it in the world. The romance subplot is perfectly threaded amongst the higher level threats that Malik faces, showing how he is trying to have the ordinary life amongst the extraordinary.

Bringing mental health into the conversation given everything that happened in book one was just perfection and a topic that more fantasy books should broach, especially when the characters are dealing with so much trauma. If you’re looking for your new favorite series that features a magic school, it’s time to attend Caiman University, the HBCU for the young, Black, and magical, by reading Blood at the Root and Bones at the Crossroads.

And do yourself the hugest of favors and read this with the audiobook. Jalyn Hall voices the hell out of this book. He is exceptionally talented and brings Malik and the other characters to life in the very best way. I also really enjoy the “magic” sound effects that happen when some spellcasting is going on. Thank you PRH Audio!

Thank you to @penguinteen for the eARC and @prhaudio for the ALC! All thoughts are my own.

I loved the first book, but this book's pacing just was all over the place. The entire second act could have been left out and the message was very heavy handed.

So captivating & great storytelling. Ladarrion really knows how to make you want to transport yourself in the book. I see myself in his characters and I can feel as if I'm walking through the campus of Caiman University. This book single handedly reminded me why I always enjoy YA Fantasy. I'm sad but I'm excited for the final book in this series. Applauding LaDarrion and all of his hard work. This story deserves to be read and seen. I can't wait to see it on the big screen!

3.5 stars

“Sometimes I feel like I don’t even know how to smile. Things have been going so wrong for so long; I’m just trying to keep my head above water.“
-Bones at the Crossroads

To start there were sections I absolutely loved, the first 1/3 was perfect, picking up right after we left off, in the midst of turmoil and the heartbreak for our young protagonist Malik Baron. However in the second third the pacing slowed way down, and we got very caught up in the drama of homecoming which is all well and good except that there was this huge chaotic mess going on and it felt like a strange priority to spend so much time on, plus this created a bunch of drama between characters who were supposed to be friends and actually seemed to take away from the pro-queer message. The shift in focus once again happens in the last third and the pacing speeds up throwing our focus back on the main conflict, while also raising so many questions about samedi and Brigette and how they could have corrected some of the situation. As well as a new character in John Henry being introduced but not made a major player. Malik throws more than one tantrum which I had to remind myself he’s only 17, but for someone whose trying so hard to do right it felt like he was very impulsive at times leading to unnecessary shifts in dynamics.

I really loved where this story started and was headed, but was left with far more questions about why the character did things, not necessarily ones that have answers either.

I think the last 10% had a redemption that I believe will continue into the next book. But I just felt like there was a good percentage in the middle where I didn’t know why I was fighting for the protagonist anymore. As well as starting to unravel some of the magical rules.

In the authors note their is a reminder that black buys are magic too, and this idea about queer black men, and softness being allowed even though it’s hard is interwoven into the characters, I wanted to see that represented more rather than becoming a point of tension between our found family.

The main reason I had to come down from 4 stars was these pacing issues, and the shift in focus on character arc.

📚 ARC via NetGalley

I am still thinking about this one . Bones at the Crossroads is a powerful, emotional follow-up to Blood at the Root, and I’m so grateful I got an ARC through NetGalley because—wow. That ending?? I need book three yesterday.
This book continues Malik’s story, and let me tell you—I got so protective of him in this one. Watching him navigate betrayal, pressure, and growing responsibility had me talking to the page like, “Why are y’all doing this to my boy?!”
The pacing at the beginning is definitely slower, with the first 30–40% focused on building out the magical college setting and expanding the world—more classes, more rituals, and the introduction of Greek life and music magic (!!), which plays a much bigger role this time around. At first, I was missing the action from book one’s ending, but I quickly realized how necessary that buildup was. It created space for deeper conversations and character exploration, and once the momentum hit—it hit hard. Whiplash level.
This book doesn’t shy away from difficult or necessary conversations, and I appreciated how LaDarrion Williams continues to weave culture, history, and social commentary into a rich fantasy setting. Some characters had me raising eyebrows, some had me screaming, and some had me asking serious questions. But that’s what made it so immersive.
✨ Black fantasy excellence
✨ Music and magic, now even more intertwined
✨ Found family and betrayal


Thankful to be getting this ARC through NetGalley and Labyrinth Road publishing

Bones At The Crossroads by LaDarrion Williams is a fantastic sequel to Blood At The Root! Malik really grows into his own power in this book and the way he processes his mom and girlfriends betrayal is so real. I absolutely love his friend group and it's especially nice to see how they handle all of the stress and drama around the homecoming celebration. The descriptions of the magic and folklore is phenomenal and I love the mini history lessons in the story as well..The ending was explosive and I'll be waiting for the next book with bated breath.

Thank you to NetGalley & Random House Children's | Labyrinth Road for this ARC! In this compelling sequel to Blood at the Root, Malik returns to Caiman University for his freshman year and finds that magical dangers and family secrets have followed him home. Williams deepens the world-building with rich Afrocentric magic traditions, secret societies, and a university culture that pulses with life and authenticity. Malik’s internal struggles - grief, identity, legacy - are layered and emotionally resonant, grounded in a voice that feels real and relatable. Balanced with friendship, romance, and high-stakes conflict, the novel delivers an immersive, emotionally charged fantasy that's both thoughtful and thrilling

Bones at the Crossroads jumps straight into the action and rarely slows down. From the start, the magical elements, African history, and fast-paced drama kept me invested. Malik’s character development shines as he continues to explore his powers, face his trauma, and step into who he’s meant to become. His journey with therapy, grief, and identity adds real emotional depth, and it’s clear he’s grown so much since book one.

One big shift from the first book is the stronger focus on queer and gay rights, especially for Black youth. While I fully support the representation and love how welcoming and affirming the characters are, at times the theme felt a little too front-and-center, pulling attention away from the magical conflict that the story had been building. I appreciate the space it creates for young readers, but I wanted a bit more balance with the core plot.

The tension really hits around 80%—from Malik’s mom showing up to nonstop twists and chaos. Madam Empress Bonclair was truly infuriating, and the moment Malik’s surprise ally shows up? Perfect timing. I also loved Tituba’s presence—powerful, wise, and unforgettable.

And that big reveal about Chancellor Tarron, along with the reveal of the meaning behind Lorraine’s madness? Full of secrets, lies, and generational trauma. The last stretch of the book delivered the drama and answered a lot while still leaving the door open for a little bit more. That ending definitely hints at book three, and I’ll be ready for it.

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Children’s for the ARC, and major thanks to LaDarrion Williams for creating such a rich world and safe space for young Black readers to see themselves represented in stories full of magic, identity, and healing.

"Bones at the Crossroads" tells the "Bones at the Crossroads" tells the story of Malik, a Black boy coming of age under the heavy weight of responsibility. As a college student, he juggles life and lectures while also caring for his young friend Tay and grappling with the choices of his family. Caught between a desire for freedom and the need to hold his new found family together, Malik embodies the struggles many young Black boys face: expected to be strong and responsible before they’re truly ready. The gentle approach to sexuality was perfect didnt feel rushed it flowed well in the story. When he enters Caiman's magical world filled with secrets his mother never meant for him to uncover, it becomes more than just an escape; it’s a journey with the harsh realities he endures. Perfect follow up to Blood at the root. Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for the opportunity to receive and read this advanced copy for review all opinions are my own.

A Southern Gothic Spell That Had Me Hooked

Whew. Bones at the Crossroads snatched my attention and refused to let go. From page one, LaDarrion Williams does what he does—drops us right back into the heat, the hoodoo, and the heartbeat of Caiman University. Malik Baron is back, and he didn’t come to play. After the heart-wrenching end of Blood at the Root, I practically ran to dive into this sequel. And it did not disappoint. Malik is growing—still grieving, still haunted—but there’s a quiet strength about him now. His bond with Dominique felt fresh and grounded, never forced. And their Homecoming Royalty moment? Beautifully done. The vibe was very “Black excellence meets spiritual warfare.” Speaking of vibes—this book oozes them. The HBCU setting was so vivid, I could hear the drumline, taste the hot sauce, and smell the fresh-pressed curls on the yard. The magic? Rooted and real. The danger? Thick and looming. Watching Malik wrestle with the truth about his mother while trying to stay ten toes down? Absolutely gutting. And the new characters? Loved. The way Williams braids folklore into the narrative like stories passed down in whispers—brilliant. The gumbo is simmering, the spirits are watching, and the crossroads are waiting. Sure, I wanted a bit more magic in some moments, and yes, the middle took its time—but when the story lands, it lands. That cliffhanger? I gasped. Again. This man really knows how to keep us on edge. To sum it up: I laughed. I mourned. I devoured every word like a plate of red beans and rice on a Sunday. If this series isn’t on your radar yet, you’re sleeping. I’m already lighting candles for book three. LaDarrion, we need you to cook faster.

Thank you, NetGalley, for allowing me to read Bones at the Crossroads in exchange for my honest review.

Bones at the Crossroads by LaDarrion Williams was action packed and the plot keeps readers guessing until the very end.
The characters here are absolutely incredible.
I enjoyed the adventure, black culture, stronger magic, and themes of friendship and found family.

In Bones at the Crossroads, we are back with Malik as he is taken on a journey of who he is and who he can trust. Not everyone is who he thought they were and his mother is actually alive when he thought she was dead.

4/5⭐️

The first act had a bit of a slow start. It started to pick up around halfway in the second act. The last 30% alone gave me whiplash! So much kept happening that I didn’t know which way to look

I thoroughly enjoyed the conversations about being queer in America and predominantly black spaces. Seeing Malik, D Low, and Savon navigate their feelings and conversations made me shed a few tears.

Cannot wait to see how this story continues!!

The author writes a note that he wanted to write a fantasy book starring a person like himself. To be able for other young Black men to be able to see themselves on the cover of a fantasy. But not only does he want to write about a Black young man being in a magical school but for the young man to be very normal. For him to make mistakes and be able to grow. Not to be perfect or to be the one sacrificed as so often happens if a Black young man shows up in a book. Well, he delivers.

But you also need for the story to be entertaining and there to be other great multi-faceted characters if you want people to read it. Well, he delivers there too. It has a fascinating magic system based on traditional Black practices, heart, romance, betrayal, action, and friendship. There was a really tender moment between the main character and a new romance that could be considered chessey but I thought it was just how young romance can be without all the cynicism that we see today. Yet with the characters still be very much of the here and now.

While I didn't read the first in the series, I could still understand this one and I will be sure to read the 1st book soon. Definitely something that should be added to your to-be-read list.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I loved loved LOVEDDDD this story! I was such a fan of BATR that I read it three times and I promise this will be the same way. This was easy to read, none of the Gen-Z lingo felt forced, LaDarrion dropped so many gems of wisdom and really made this story blackity-black in the most positive way. There were so many things that I liked about this story, with a few dislikes as well, and my main one being Chancellor Taron Bonclair’s Mama, Evil Angela Bassett herself, Madam Empress Bonclair. I can’t stand that lady, but I’m hlad she kept her same energy through the story with her growing disdain for Malik. I was NOT surprised at all by Taron being his father, and I was glad when he finally stood up to his Mama about Malik being his son. I have mixed feelings about Alexis, but I’m glad Malik has Dom. Originally I didn’t know if I could trust her or Tituba because it seems like so many people have played in his face throughout this journey. I’m glad that hasn’t been the case with both of them. Love Ms. Faye, the librarian. Savon and D-Low’s relationship was my favorite. I wish they had their own side story with a close up of how that’s going and D-Low diving more into his complicated relationship with his family. There was so much that I enjoyed, and I have so many questions about where we go from here. I can’t wait for book 3. 👏🏾

Bones at the Crossroads picks up right after Blood at the Root, so definitely read that one first if you’re diving in!

The HBCU x magical vibes are still strong, and I appreciated how some critiques from book one were addressed this time around. That said, this one felt a little like a setup for a bigger story—filler-ish in spots—but I’m still curious about where things go next (especially if we’re getting a book three 👀).

Malik’s character growth stood out, and the worldbuilding continues to give. It wasn’t perfect, but I enjoyed it overall and would still recommend the series

Thank you @NetGalley & @randomhousekids for the arc in exchange for an honest review.

This was great. When I finished "Blood at the Root," I more or less made a wishlist for what I'd like to see in this book, and I felt like Williams addressed most of my issues with the first novel. (To be clear, I did enjoy book one, but I think it had some issues.)

If you're reading this review, I presume you've read "Blood at the Root," so let me give a couple of comparisons first:

1. "Bones at the Crossroads" is much darker than book 1, IMO, in terms of the amount of violence and death. It's not extreme for the genre, which I would call late YA, but the gloves are off and the stakes are high here.

2. Williams really rolled back the amount of in-narration AAVE. For me, that's neither here nor there, but some people felt strongly about it, so I think it's worth noting. There is still a lot of "NOOOO!!!" etc. with extra letters and punctuation, and I remain mildly frustrated by that editorial choice, though not to the point where it impacted my review.

3. Some people got real mad about how Malik treated Alexis is book 1, and I think they were right to feel that way. In this book, Malik's anger and messiness are address (though not resolved) and I think it's worth following his emotional journey through this book, because that choice was deliberate on Williams's part.

In general, Williams's prose really matured here---many scenes in book 1 felt rushed, and Williams spends SO MUCH MORE time on worldbuilding and the magic system, which was quite muddy in the first book. There's a lot of fairly on-the-nose commentary about queer and trans identities in the Black community, which for me was a plus, let's talk about it more... also, am I an idiot, how did I not clock the earlier references to the House of Transcendence? More of the side characters get more fleshed out, I understood people's goals better in this book, and overall I think Williams's talent is growing, so I'm excited to see what he does with this series and in future works.

Other little things I really enjoyed:
- subtle humor than made me snort-laugh multiple times
- the scathing things the characters have to say about Miller's "The Crucible" (so accurate)
- the quote "Mercury is retrograding the hell outta me right now."

Williams opens the book with some notes on the adultification of Black boys and youths. Malik is messy, he makes mistakes, he has a lot of anger and a lot of trauma. He's surrounded by adults who have failed him, and it's understandably hard for him to trust people and manage his emotions. Spoiler: he goes to therapy! And while this book does include racial trauma (though apparently it was marketed otherwise), this second installment focuses more on the the trauma of having parents who continually put their desires before your needs. BIG. OOF.

There were some parts where I was confused why things were happening (the answer was often "for plot reasons") and the end drove me a little bit nuts because there was a big problem and Malik took, like, a full day of procrastination time to resolve his love triangle when TIME WAS OF THE ESSENCE. But overall, I thought this book was stronger and more thoroughly developed than the first book, and I will most definitely be back for more.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. My review is my own and being left voluntarily.

4.25/5 Stars

Bones at the Crossroads is the second book in the Blood at the Roots trilogy and it blew me away! We return to Caiman University shortly after the events at the end of book one. While everyone else is getting ready for new classes, parties, and rushing fraternities and sororities, Malik is still reeling from everything that happened that summer. He’s dealing with loss and betrayal, but those in power tell him he can’t let anyone know the truth about what happened. The story follows him as he learns even more about his past and his magic, trying to be a normal college student while also worrying about the threat of the Bokors.

I love everything about this series. This book continued the amazing storytelling of the first, with a gripping plot and amazing character development. Malik is a teen boy with trauma who is just trying to live life. I love how therapy is brought into this story and the insight we get into different characters experience with that. Williams also incorporated religion into the magic system of this world and I really liked how it was woven into the history and casting along with other Black and African magic.

The characters’ relationships in this book are what makes it one of my favorite series! I love all the friendships and how real they are. Williams isn’t afraid to throw in some tension and drama to show these kids working and growing through the termoil. I LOVED the Malik and Dom storyline and how much respect was given to that playing out. They showed so much maturity and growth for 17 year olds and I cannot wait to see what happens next with them. There is also family drama, generational trauma, and so much more to explore with all these characters!