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Rages #2
The Unrelenting Earth
In this dazzling sequel to the The Surviving Sky, Ahilya and Iravan risk everything—their lives, their culture, and their fragile marriage—in pursuit of the earth-shattering truth about their existence.
"Breathtakingly inventive" epic science-fantasy inspired by Hindu philosophy, for fans of N.K. Jemisin and Tasha Suri.
Two months have passed since Ahilya and Iravan learned the devastating truths behind the earthrages. As the cosmic creatures struggle to break into the world, and Nakshar's architecture disintegrates, the desperate council summons their sister ashrams to a Conclave, to discuss the future of life in the skies.
Ahilya, now a councillor, is determined to share the truth about the cosmic beings and the nature of Ecstatic trajection so she can liberate ordinary citizens and save the condemned architects. Her conviction has alienated her allies and created dangerous enemies. Only Iravan has a chance of persuading the Conclave that Ecstatics are not unstable, but he returns from the jungle struggling with his own Ecstasy. He has little control over his second-self, the primal falcon yaksha, and finds the Conclave hostile to his cause.
As strange, deadly storms break out, threatening refuge even in the skies, Iravan and the other Ecstatic architects face brutal reprisals. And with the barrier restraining the cosmic beings thinning, Ahilya and Iravan know they are running out of time to save everyone. Thrust into the center of the storm, both will have to confront what matters most to them, who they really are, and what it means for the future of humanity.
"Breathtakingly inventive" epic science-fantasy inspired by Hindu philosophy, for fans of N.K. Jemisin and Tasha Suri.
Two months have passed since Ahilya and Iravan learned the devastating truths behind the earthrages. As the cosmic creatures struggle to break into the world, and Nakshar's architecture disintegrates, the desperate council summons their sister ashrams to a Conclave, to discuss the future of life in the skies.
Ahilya, now a councillor, is determined to share the truth about the cosmic beings and the nature of Ecstatic trajection so she can liberate ordinary citizens and save the condemned architects. Her conviction has alienated her allies and created dangerous enemies. Only Iravan has a chance of persuading the Conclave that Ecstatics are not unstable, but he returns from the jungle struggling with his own Ecstasy. He has little control over his second-self, the primal falcon yaksha, and finds the Conclave hostile to his cause.
As strange, deadly storms break out, threatening refuge even in the skies, Iravan and the other Ecstatic architects face brutal reprisals. And with the barrier restraining the cosmic beings thinning, Ahilya and Iravan know they are running out of time to save everyone. Thrust into the center of the storm, both will have to confront what matters most to them, who they really are, and what it means for the future of humanity.
560 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 18, 2024
About the author
Kritika H. Rao
4 books198 followersKritika H. Rao is a science-fiction and fantasy writer, who has lived in India, Australia, Canada and The Sultanate of Oman. Kritika’s stories are influenced by her lived experiences, and often explore themes of consciousness, self vs. the world, and identity. She drops in and out of social media; you might catch her on Twitter or Instagram @KritikaHRao. Visit her online at www.kritikahrao.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
July 13, 2024
Luscious and full of possibilities. Some books you read, some you endure, and some of them...they transport you.
Reminding us that we yet live in the Moment; full of infinite probabilities in an infinite multiverse that means so much more than can be comprehended by our finite minds. Two roads in sleep, and yet I rouse to many...
This duology is one such and I highly recommend it.
Reminding us that we yet live in the Moment; full of infinite probabilities in an infinite multiverse that means so much more than can be comprehended by our finite minds. Two roads in sleep, and yet I rouse to many...
This duology is one such and I highly recommend it.
May 26, 2024
4.0 Stars
This is one of those cases where the sequel is even stronger than the first book. I liked the worldbuilding in the Surviving Sky but I felt there was room for growth.
I was happy that this second book resolved a lot of my quibbles with the previous novel. The characters felt more developed with stronger with a more well fleshed out world.
I enjoyed the plot progression in this one and look forward to the next volume when it is released.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
This is one of those cases where the sequel is even stronger than the first book. I liked the worldbuilding in the Surviving Sky but I felt there was room for growth.
I was happy that this second book resolved a lot of my quibbles with the previous novel. The characters felt more developed with stronger with a more well fleshed out world.
I enjoyed the plot progression in this one and look forward to the next volume when it is released.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
July 2, 2024
Best read of 2024 with Ruocchio's Book 6 🏆
In English in the comments ⤵️
"Avis" à chaud ✨
Vous connaissez cette sensation ?
Celle qu'un livre a été écrit pour vous? Eh bien c'est ce que j'avais eu avec le tome 1 et Rao renouvelle l'exploit avec cette superbe suite qui va direct dans mon top de l'année et peut être même ma meilleure lecture de 2024 avec le tome 6 de Ruocchio !
C'est simple, j'en ressors vidé, épuisé, émerveillé. Je n'ai plus envie de toucher un autre livre, j'ai envie de continuer à m'imaginer dans celui ci et digérer ma lecture !
Car quelle lecture ça a été 😱💗😭
Alors oui, c'est un roman qui n'est pas aisé et qui peut être exigeant, parfois plus que le tome 1 c'est dire! Le système de magie est totalement fou et révolutionnaire mais parfois pas forcément compréhensible tout de suite. Mais au fur et à mesure de votre lecture, tout s'éclaircit ! 🥰💗
Cette série fait partie des rares univers où tout est en corrélation, chaque éléments étant liés aux autres ; de fait, les personnages, la magie, le Worldbuilding ainsi que les concepts de philosophie hindouiste sont inextricablement liés et rend le tout totalement cohérent, bluffant et brillant.
C'est pour moi un superbe Hard Science-Fantasy, et l'autrice est vraiment talentueuse pour arriver à nous faire ressentir tout ce qu'elle nous offre.
Les personnages sont très réalistes, et j'ai adoré voir combien l'autrice joue des effets de miroirs entre des situations vécues par l'un ou par l'autre d'un volume à un autre, et qui permet au personnage d'en face de mieux comprendre les émotions et réactions de l'autre.
Le Worldbuilding reste incroyable, et d'une très grande richesse, de même que la magie qui au final maintient aussi l'ordre et le système de castes en place. Mais les choses pourraient bien changer au vue des révélations de la fin du tome 1.
Aujourd'hui l'heure est au travail en commun, mais comment y parvenir avec les peines qui subsistent en chacun? Et comment y parvenir quand il semble que nos deux héros aient deux agendas bien distincts.
C'est là encore la force de l'autrice qui parvient à nous faire ressentir toutes les émotions de Ahilya et Aravan et bien que ce tome ci nous offre parfois plus la possibilité de donner raison à l'un plus qu'à l'autre, contrairement au tome 1, j'aime tellement ces personnages que je me refuse à prendre partie... Et pourtant...
Si la philosophie hindoue prend une place importante dans la construction de l'univers de Rao ; des thèmes comme le Dharma qui représente le devoir et la responsabilité que chacun a envers soi-même, sa famille et la société, ou encore la loi du Karma qui fait référence à la loi de cause à effet, selon laquelle chaque action entraîne une conséquence, qu’elle soit positive ou négative ; il est un concept qui semble majeur dans la série, celui de la métempsycose , la transmigration des âmes, aussi appelé réincarnation ! C'est le concept de l'immortalité de l'âme qui se réincarne dans un être matériel. C'est une errance douloureuse car l'âme est conduite à revivre à nouveau les difficultés du monde. Le but suprême est de quitter et oublier les préoccupations matérielles afin de briser le cycle des réincarnations et libérer l'âme des tourments. Mais si on croit à ce concept, ne peut on pas y voir JUSTEMENT, le fait que notre âme, tant qu'elle se réincarne, reste immortelle ? Et donc le désir de poursuivre le cycle des réincarnations ?
Deux idées se confrontent au sein de ce même concept. Deux idées que l'on retrouve dans le roman et donne une saveur particulière, philosophique à l'intrigue principale.😱
Ces concepts sont vraiment au cœur de la psyché de nos personnages et nous permet en tant que lecteur de prendre parfois partie, car parfois la différence entre ce qui est bien et ce qui est juste, peut être vraiment fine.
En tout cas, le concept de réincarnation et de l'immortalité de l'âme reste la trame de fond de la série. Et encore une fois, on voit combien l'autrice a savamment travaillé son récit pour que tout s'imbrique totalement !
Avez vous déjà ressenti cette émotion ? Celle qu'un livre a été écrit pour vous? C'est mon sentiment depuis le tome 1 de la série ; une série qui trône maintenant parmi mes préférées de tous les temps et je suis heureux de dire qu'elle arrive en plus en France, les droits ayant été achetés !!! 🥰💗💕🇮🇳
In English in the comments ⤵️
"Avis" à chaud ✨
Vous connaissez cette sensation ?
Celle qu'un livre a été écrit pour vous? Eh bien c'est ce que j'avais eu avec le tome 1 et Rao renouvelle l'exploit avec cette superbe suite qui va direct dans mon top de l'année et peut être même ma meilleure lecture de 2024 avec le tome 6 de Ruocchio !
C'est simple, j'en ressors vidé, épuisé, émerveillé. Je n'ai plus envie de toucher un autre livre, j'ai envie de continuer à m'imaginer dans celui ci et digérer ma lecture !
Car quelle lecture ça a été 😱💗😭
Alors oui, c'est un roman qui n'est pas aisé et qui peut être exigeant, parfois plus que le tome 1 c'est dire! Le système de magie est totalement fou et révolutionnaire mais parfois pas forcément compréhensible tout de suite. Mais au fur et à mesure de votre lecture, tout s'éclaircit ! 🥰💗
Cette série fait partie des rares univers où tout est en corrélation, chaque éléments étant liés aux autres ; de fait, les personnages, la magie, le Worldbuilding ainsi que les concepts de philosophie hindouiste sont inextricablement liés et rend le tout totalement cohérent, bluffant et brillant.
C'est pour moi un superbe Hard Science-Fantasy, et l'autrice est vraiment talentueuse pour arriver à nous faire ressentir tout ce qu'elle nous offre.
Les personnages sont très réalistes, et j'ai adoré voir combien l'autrice joue des effets de miroirs entre des situations vécues par l'un ou par l'autre d'un volume à un autre, et qui permet au personnage d'en face de mieux comprendre les émotions et réactions de l'autre.
Le Worldbuilding reste incroyable, et d'une très grande richesse, de même que la magie qui au final maintient aussi l'ordre et le système de castes en place. Mais les choses pourraient bien changer au vue des révélations de la fin du tome 1.
Aujourd'hui l'heure est au travail en commun, mais comment y parvenir avec les peines qui subsistent en chacun? Et comment y parvenir quand il semble que nos deux héros aient deux agendas bien distincts.
C'est là encore la force de l'autrice qui parvient à nous faire ressentir toutes les émotions de Ahilya et Aravan et bien que ce tome ci nous offre parfois plus la possibilité de donner raison à l'un plus qu'à l'autre, contrairement au tome 1, j'aime tellement ces personnages que je me refuse à prendre partie... Et pourtant...
Si la philosophie hindoue prend une place importante dans la construction de l'univers de Rao ; des thèmes comme le Dharma qui représente le devoir et la responsabilité que chacun a envers soi-même, sa famille et la société, ou encore la loi du Karma qui fait référence à la loi de cause à effet, selon laquelle chaque action entraîne une conséquence, qu’elle soit positive ou négative ; il est un concept qui semble majeur dans la série, celui de la métempsycose , la transmigration des âmes, aussi appelé réincarnation ! C'est le concept de l'immortalité de l'âme qui se réincarne dans un être matériel. C'est une errance douloureuse car l'âme est conduite à revivre à nouveau les difficultés du monde. Le but suprême est de quitter et oublier les préoccupations matérielles afin de briser le cycle des réincarnations et libérer l'âme des tourments. Mais si on croit à ce concept, ne peut on pas y voir JUSTEMENT, le fait que notre âme, tant qu'elle se réincarne, reste immortelle ? Et donc le désir de poursuivre le cycle des réincarnations ?
Deux idées se confrontent au sein de ce même concept. Deux idées que l'on retrouve dans le roman et donne une saveur particulière, philosophique à l'intrigue principale.😱
Ces concepts sont vraiment au cœur de la psyché de nos personnages et nous permet en tant que lecteur de prendre parfois partie, car parfois la différence entre ce qui est bien et ce qui est juste, peut être vraiment fine.
En tout cas, le concept de réincarnation et de l'immortalité de l'âme reste la trame de fond de la série. Et encore une fois, on voit combien l'autrice a savamment travaillé son récit pour que tout s'imbrique totalement !
Avez vous déjà ressenti cette émotion ? Celle qu'un livre a été écrit pour vous? C'est mon sentiment depuis le tome 1 de la série ; une série qui trône maintenant parmi mes préférées de tous les temps et je suis heureux de dire qu'elle arrive en plus en France, les droits ayant été achetés !!! 🥰💗💕🇮🇳
April 24, 2024
Unfortunately, book 2 in the "The Rages" series was a complete miss for me, which is a shock since I really enjoyed book 1. My biggest drawbacks were:
-the magic system made no sense
-the book was way too long and felt like a chore to read
-the author should have found a way to end the series with this book (I think it easily could have been done!) but instead, is dragging it on to be at least one more book
My biggest issue is that I cannot understand the magic system. I didn't understand it in book one, and then it became infinitely more complex. I even read the glossary of magic words and still could not parse the difference between the moment, the resonance, the deepness, etc. This is a huge detriment to the reader, because every scene from Iravan's point of view is all about trajection and the different levels he is using. The first 20% of the book was just scene after scene of ectastic "trajection", so not understanding it made the book incredibly difficult to follow and get into.
Another complaint is that nothing interesting happens for about 50% of the book. When I finally became interested, it was always Ahilya's point of view I enjoyed because she didn't traject, so no need to understand the magic system. There were just way too many scenes with the vaguely described magic system throughout (especially at the end) and it made picking up this book a chore. I actively did not want to read, and that very rarely happens to me-I read every single day! I had to force my way through this book and I wish it had a conclusive ending because I will not be suffering through book 3.
The book was also just way too long; many of the trajection/ecstatic scenes could have been cut, and at this point I am tired of hearing Ahilya and Iravan complain about their relationship. Clearly they should not be together.
You may like this book if you enjoyed book 1. The world building is still super cool, with the Ashrams in the sky and the earth being uninhabitable due to the rages. You may also enjoy this series if you like a mix of sci-fantasy, and can understand this complex magic system. 3/5 stars for me because it's a cool concept that I just can't wrap my head around.
Thank you so much to netgalley and Titan Books for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
I also want to put one trigger warning in a spoiler below that could be a huge drawback for some readers:
SPOILER
TW: miscarriage
-the magic system made no sense
-the book was way too long and felt like a chore to read
-the author should have found a way to end the series with this book (I think it easily could have been done!) but instead, is dragging it on to be at least one more book
My biggest issue is that I cannot understand the magic system. I didn't understand it in book one, and then it became infinitely more complex. I even read the glossary of magic words and still could not parse the difference between the moment, the resonance, the deepness, etc. This is a huge detriment to the reader, because every scene from Iravan's point of view is all about trajection and the different levels he is using. The first 20% of the book was just scene after scene of ectastic "trajection", so not understanding it made the book incredibly difficult to follow and get into.
Another complaint is that nothing interesting happens for about 50% of the book. When I finally became interested, it was always Ahilya's point of view I enjoyed because she didn't traject, so no need to understand the magic system. There were just way too many scenes with the vaguely described magic system throughout (especially at the end) and it made picking up this book a chore. I actively did not want to read, and that very rarely happens to me-I read every single day! I had to force my way through this book and I wish it had a conclusive ending because I will not be suffering through book 3.
The book was also just way too long; many of the trajection/ecstatic scenes could have been cut, and at this point I am tired of hearing Ahilya and Iravan complain about their relationship. Clearly they should not be together.
You may like this book if you enjoyed book 1. The world building is still super cool, with the Ashrams in the sky and the earth being uninhabitable due to the rages. You may also enjoy this series if you like a mix of sci-fantasy, and can understand this complex magic system. 3/5 stars for me because it's a cool concept that I just can't wrap my head around.
Thank you so much to netgalley and Titan Books for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
I also want to put one trigger warning in a spoiler below that could be a huge drawback for some readers:
SPOILER
TW: miscarriage
July 4, 2024
Thanks to Netgalley for the audiobook ARC. Unfortunately, this was a painfully bloated follow-up to the first book, which I loved for its world-building, and brilliant use of the Ahalya archetype. However, the non-stop action, disorienting twists of barely explained magic system, and the endless politicking got exhausting. That said, the narrators did a brilliant job of making everything about this world very vivid and engaging. However, some accent choices for some characters were the stereotypical "Indian accent" which I found jarring, immediately losing the thread of whatever plot explanations those characters were imparting. This installment doesn't rely much on the Hindu mythology as much or beyond what was already set up in the first book, so at this point, this narrative is very much its own thing. And I'm sad to report, it's kind of a dense slog. Probably won't be picking up the unnecessarily stretched out need for a sequel.
July 5, 2024
[This review can also be found on my BLOG]
**I was provided with a copy of the book by Titan Books in exchange for an honest review**
CW: blood, injury, body horror, murder, death, grief, pregnancy, miscarriage classism
--
The Unrelenting Earth brilliantly builds on everything introduced in The Surviving Sky and spins the series in a direction that sets it up for a riveting conclusion.
Resuming a few months after the story left off Ahilya, now a council member and the only civilian holding such a position finds herself on a whole new battlefield when all the sister ashrams and their obstinate Architects come together for a Conclave. Iravan, despite being the embodiment of a stable Ecstatic is still facing challenges with his powers including not having full control of his yaksha which could prove to be fatal with Nakshar’s architecture falling apart and the Architects looking for somewhere to pin the blame. Though their personal relationship has become less of a tempest Ahilya and Iravan’s discoveries about the Earthrages has only just started to shake their world and everything they have ever known.
I didn’t get around to doing a reread of book 1 before jumping into this one so it took me a few chapters to recollect all the terminology with regards to the magic system and world but rest assured the finished copy has a handy glossary at the back and a quick flip to it is super helpful in reminding you what everything is.
That aside Rao’s storytelling immediately immerses you back into Ahilya and Iravan’s lives as well as the lush and immersive setting of Nakshar. What I loved the most about this sequel was how it expanded on the worldbuilding. With a Conclave taking place we are introduced to the various sister ashrams and their individual communities and though we only briefly visit them we get a broader understanding of the power structure behind living in the skies. Seeing the inner workings of the Conclave through Ahilya’s eyes and further exploring the politics/system that she has more fixedly become a part of was so interesting.
Iravan’s exploration of the limits of his powers and connection to the falcon yaksha was just as fascinating. Though I’ve got to admit at times when the whole magic system was being expanded on things did get a little confusing. You truly have to slow down and take in all the details properly to fully catch on to all the intricacies but for the most part it isn’t difficult to understand the main gist of what is going on.
Similar to the first book the narrative was quite exposition heavy so you’ll find yourself wading through chunks of story where the characters are going through their thoughts and trying to further understand the power and history behind what they're going through. I was fascinated by all the hidden knowledge that Iravan and Ahilya were discovering and how Rao expanded on the themes of Hindu philosophy but this did mean that the pacing was often on the slow side while the timeline of the book was very short.
There were still some great moments of action and tension throughout though and with how impassioned and fiery our two protagonists are, their journeys and relationship continued to be packed with so much emotion. The pivot the story takes towards the end to set up the final part of the series had me floored and now I’m eagerly awaiting book 3!
Final Rating – 4/5 Stars
**I was provided with a copy of the book by Titan Books in exchange for an honest review**
CW: blood, injury, body horror, murder, death, grief, pregnancy, miscarriage classism
--
The Unrelenting Earth brilliantly builds on everything introduced in The Surviving Sky and spins the series in a direction that sets it up for a riveting conclusion.
Resuming a few months after the story left off Ahilya, now a council member and the only civilian holding such a position finds herself on a whole new battlefield when all the sister ashrams and their obstinate Architects come together for a Conclave. Iravan, despite being the embodiment of a stable Ecstatic is still facing challenges with his powers including not having full control of his yaksha which could prove to be fatal with Nakshar’s architecture falling apart and the Architects looking for somewhere to pin the blame. Though their personal relationship has become less of a tempest Ahilya and Iravan’s discoveries about the Earthrages has only just started to shake their world and everything they have ever known.
I didn’t get around to doing a reread of book 1 before jumping into this one so it took me a few chapters to recollect all the terminology with regards to the magic system and world but rest assured the finished copy has a handy glossary at the back and a quick flip to it is super helpful in reminding you what everything is.
That aside Rao’s storytelling immediately immerses you back into Ahilya and Iravan’s lives as well as the lush and immersive setting of Nakshar. What I loved the most about this sequel was how it expanded on the worldbuilding. With a Conclave taking place we are introduced to the various sister ashrams and their individual communities and though we only briefly visit them we get a broader understanding of the power structure behind living in the skies. Seeing the inner workings of the Conclave through Ahilya’s eyes and further exploring the politics/system that she has more fixedly become a part of was so interesting.
Iravan’s exploration of the limits of his powers and connection to the falcon yaksha was just as fascinating. Though I’ve got to admit at times when the whole magic system was being expanded on things did get a little confusing. You truly have to slow down and take in all the details properly to fully catch on to all the intricacies but for the most part it isn’t difficult to understand the main gist of what is going on.
Similar to the first book the narrative was quite exposition heavy so you’ll find yourself wading through chunks of story where the characters are going through their thoughts and trying to further understand the power and history behind what they're going through. I was fascinated by all the hidden knowledge that Iravan and Ahilya were discovering and how Rao expanded on the themes of Hindu philosophy but this did mean that the pacing was often on the slow side while the timeline of the book was very short.
There were still some great moments of action and tension throughout though and with how impassioned and fiery our two protagonists are, their journeys and relationship continued to be packed with so much emotion. The pivot the story takes towards the end to set up the final part of the series had me floored and now I’m eagerly awaiting book 3!
Final Rating – 4/5 Stars
July 9, 2024
CW: pregnancy, miscarriage
I’m hedging between a 4 and 4.5 for now.
After really having a great time with The Surviving Sky last year, I was very much looking forward to this sequel and I’m so glad to report that this is a great sophomore book from the author.
Kritika does a wonderful job expanding on the already very interesting world and magic system that she created in the first book - taking us through the highs and lows and all the possibilities of ecstatic trajection through Iravan’s pov; the history of the various ashrams, their relationships and interdependencies with each other, the power structures and hierarchy within the conclave and how non architects lives get out on the line again and again, all of it through Ahilya’s pov. I like the idea of us readers learning more through the eyes of our characters, though it meant that this book can feel both thrilling and slow paced alternately.
Both our main characters felt much more fleshed out this time, with each focusing on their duties and trying to protect those they care for. While their own relationship takes a backseat and Ahilya is struggling with her pregnancy, they both try their best to change the course of their world, but their lofty and idealistic ambitions get waylaid both by politics and cosmic creatures hellbent on destruction. It felt like an interesting change of pace in their interactions, because they were bickering less than book 1, but their individual purposes which don’t always align are also taking a toll on their relationship, which was all fascinating to read about.
However, it’s the final few chapters that have me completely shocked. While now it seems quite plausible, I didn’t see the ending coming and I feel like the finale will be more explosive - not due to the earthrages and cosmic creatures, but due to Iravan and Ahilya. I can’t wait…!!!
I did want to mention that I listened to the audiobook again and while I still felt the narrators did a wonderful job, there were many instances where the dialogues of the supporting characters were almost like whispers, making it very difficult to hear and understand. No issues when narrating the dialogues of the main characters.
I’m hedging between a 4 and 4.5 for now.
After really having a great time with The Surviving Sky last year, I was very much looking forward to this sequel and I’m so glad to report that this is a great sophomore book from the author.
Kritika does a wonderful job expanding on the already very interesting world and magic system that she created in the first book - taking us through the highs and lows and all the possibilities of ecstatic trajection through Iravan’s pov; the history of the various ashrams, their relationships and interdependencies with each other, the power structures and hierarchy within the conclave and how non architects lives get out on the line again and again, all of it through Ahilya’s pov. I like the idea of us readers learning more through the eyes of our characters, though it meant that this book can feel both thrilling and slow paced alternately.
Both our main characters felt much more fleshed out this time, with each focusing on their duties and trying to protect those they care for. While their own relationship takes a backseat and Ahilya is struggling with her pregnancy, they both try their best to change the course of their world, but their lofty and idealistic ambitions get waylaid both by politics and cosmic creatures hellbent on destruction. It felt like an interesting change of pace in their interactions, because they were bickering less than book 1, but their individual purposes which don’t always align are also taking a toll on their relationship, which was all fascinating to read about.
However, it’s the final few chapters that have me completely shocked. While now it seems quite plausible, I didn’t see the ending coming and I feel like the finale will be more explosive - not due to the earthrages and cosmic creatures, but due to Iravan and Ahilya. I can’t wait…!!!
I did want to mention that I listened to the audiobook again and while I still felt the narrators did a wonderful job, there were many instances where the dialogues of the supporting characters were almost like whispers, making it very difficult to hear and understand. No issues when narrating the dialogues of the main characters.
June 5, 2024
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the ARC. I really enjoyed reading The Unrelenting Earth. Surprisingly, for a second book, I like it even better than the first. The magic system is definitely a bit complicated; I don't completely understand it, and honestly I was using my own understanding of hindu philosophy to follow along. I feel like in this book, it was even more obvious than the first what the philosophical inspiration was, so even though I did not fully get the magic system, I still really liked it. The beginning was a bit slow, but once the story started picking up around the 20% mark, it became really fast paced, and the stakes were so high, I was frantically turning the pages to find out what happened next. My favorite part of the book is Ahilya and Iravan's relationship; I liked it even more compared to the first. There was still loads of tension, but also some cute moments, and so many emotional moments. Definitely check out the content warnings before reading this. I can't wait for the next book!
August 22, 2024
The Unrelenting Earth picks up right where its predecessor left off (you definitely need to read this series in order!) and has many features I appreciated in the first book: the alternating POVs of Ahilya and Iravan, compelling world-building, meaningful diversity that in no way feels tokenizing, an interesting magical / technological component (though I definitely do not fully understand the vocabulary used to describe it), and a lot of entirely believable political manoeuvring between different ashrams and the classes and interests therein. This book moves faster than the first in terms of pacing, and toward the end I couldn’t put it down. Rao has written a second book that sets up the third very well but that doesn’t suffer from ‘second book’ issues of feeling like filler or like its only purpose is setup: meaningful action and change for the characters happens and significant details of the societies’ histories and the surrounding world are revealed. I’m really enjoying this series, and look forward to the final installment.
Thank you Titan Books & NetGalley for providing an ARC.
Content warnings: violence, death, grief, blood, pregnancy loss
Thank you Titan Books & NetGalley for providing an ARC.
Content warnings: violence, death, grief, blood, pregnancy loss
June 10, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Titan Books for the chance to read this before its publication.
The Surviving Sky was one of, if not my first ARC that I was approved for and read through when I found NetGalley.
One year later and I was able to continue the experience with the second book of the Rages series!
I’m still intrigued and invested in the magic system—even when I may not entirely understand it—and overall world building with its mystic and expansive lore. And even though a year has passed since I read book one, I did feel like I was just picking up exactly where I left off and the story just continued quite fluidly for me.
I am still left with so many questions and I’m sure if they get answered I’ll end up having more, which may not necessarily be a bad thing as I’ve grown to learn you’ll always be left wanting more from books you enjoy!
The Surviving Sky was one of, if not my first ARC that I was approved for and read through when I found NetGalley.
One year later and I was able to continue the experience with the second book of the Rages series!
I’m still intrigued and invested in the magic system—even when I may not entirely understand it—and overall world building with its mystic and expansive lore. And even though a year has passed since I read book one, I did feel like I was just picking up exactly where I left off and the story just continued quite fluidly for me.
I am still left with so many questions and I’m sure if they get answered I’ll end up having more, which may not necessarily be a bad thing as I’ve grown to learn you’ll always be left wanting more from books you enjoy!
June 28, 2024
The stunning sequel to an epic an unique story!!
Plot: 4/5
The pacing and structure of tis plot was really well crafted, the way the story progressed made a lot of sense. However I felt that there were multiple instances of just fixing mistakes for things they didn't understand. Which obviously would happen, but it felt a little repetitive at moments.
Characters: 4/5
I adore Ahilya so much and I loved seeing her in moral conflicts and how she worked within her personal code of ethics. She is such a strong character and goes through so much in this book, I am in awe of her. Iravan makes me so mad because his character flaws are so persistent but I know that's intentional but I cannot stand that man.
I would have loved to see more from the side characters, especially Druv and Nayla because they've both such incredible characters with interesting morals and goals.
Writing: 5/5
Rao has such an enjoyable and emotional writing style. She draws out the tense moments to make the reader feel the same tension as the characters. She balances the two very complex POVs really well. I am incredibly excited for more books from her!
Other: 4/5
The magic and science that Rao created in this book is beyond genius... which means its a bit beyond my understanding lol... in the latter half of this book I started feeling really lost about what was happening with trajection and everything. Even the final battle, I was like.. what just happened?
Tropes to note: queer normative society, bisexual mcm, married protagonists
TW for miscarriages
Total: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
The pacing and structure of tis plot was really well crafted, the way the story progressed made a lot of sense. However I felt that there were multiple instances of just fixing mistakes for things they didn't understand. Which obviously would happen, but it felt a little repetitive at moments.
Characters: 4/5
I adore Ahilya so much and I loved seeing her in moral conflicts and how she worked within her personal code of ethics. She is such a strong character and goes through so much in this book, I am in awe of her. Iravan makes me so mad because his character flaws are so persistent but I know that's intentional but I cannot stand that man.
I would have loved to see more from the side characters, especially Druv and Nayla because they've both such incredible characters with interesting morals and goals.
Writing: 5/5
Rao has such an enjoyable and emotional writing style. She draws out the tense moments to make the reader feel the same tension as the characters. She balances the two very complex POVs really well. I am incredibly excited for more books from her!
Other: 4/5
The magic and science that Rao created in this book is beyond genius... which means its a bit beyond my understanding lol... in the latter half of this book I started feeling really lost about what was happening with trajection and everything. Even the final battle, I was like.. what just happened?
Tropes to note: queer normative society, bisexual mcm, married protagonists
TW for miscarriages
Total: 4/5
April 30, 2024
The riveting second book in the Rages trilogy picks up a couple months after the events of the first book. Ahilya and Iravan have reconciled, but their ill-fated relationship hangs on by a fragile thread. They are still reeling from the truth behind the earthrages, truths that threaten to uproot the tenets and deep-seated conditioning of their culture. Ahilya contends with the conflicting factions within the ashram, and Iravan struggles to unify with his falcon-yaksha and free the other Ecstatics. They both have a monumental task before them—to change the trajectory of civilization itself.
Like the first book, this is an instantly immersive epic that expands the boundaries of what fantasy can be. Hindu philosophy is integrated into a lush jungle world with complicated cosmic magic and intricate architectural design. Amidst a desperate fight for survival, much of the family drama continues, driven by Ahilya’s willfulness and Iravan’s regret. They are a believably flawed middle-aged couple who add tension and a sense of reckless rage to the tone of the story. This is great for fans of Martha Wells, or those who enjoy inventive sci-fi fantasy with emotional stakes.
(This review was originally written for Library Journal magazine.)
Like the first book, this is an instantly immersive epic that expands the boundaries of what fantasy can be. Hindu philosophy is integrated into a lush jungle world with complicated cosmic magic and intricate architectural design. Amidst a desperate fight for survival, much of the family drama continues, driven by Ahilya’s willfulness and Iravan’s regret. They are a believably flawed middle-aged couple who add tension and a sense of reckless rage to the tone of the story. This is great for fans of Martha Wells, or those who enjoy inventive sci-fi fantasy with emotional stakes.
(This review was originally written for Library Journal magazine.)
June 27, 2024
I was excited for this sequel, if only because the last book was so unique in its setting and how it chose to focus on the relationship of the main characters in the context of the caste-esque dystopia. The sequel leans heavy into navigating the politics of the ashrams, how what might've worked in the past may in fact be detrimental to the future, and at building a new understanding of the world. The end is aching in the best kind of way, and is a good place to leave it here for now.
July 4, 2024
I really enjoyed this one, but did find it hard to get back into as it had been some time since I read the first book.
June 18, 2024
This will not be a book for everyone. They will hear “floating jungle cities” And think oh yeah that’s cool. But this is so much more, such a complex mind bending speculative fiction- that yes had floating jungle cities, but also takes place in various mindscapes that may throw casual readers for a loop. I repeat, this is not a beach read.
I absolutely love this world and the mixture of science fiction, environmentalism, and even faith (which I’m not religious, but I appreciate it here). Iravan and Ahilya are the messiest and realist characters and I love (and sometimes hate) them so much. The political maneuvering that occurs between the Council and the Conclave is just delightful and infuriating.
If you love a complex SFF, messy characters I will continue to tell you to read this series.
I absolutely love this world and the mixture of science fiction, environmentalism, and even faith (which I’m not religious, but I appreciate it here). Iravan and Ahilya are the messiest and realist characters and I love (and sometimes hate) them so much. The political maneuvering that occurs between the Council and the Conclave is just delightful and infuriating.
If you love a complex SFF, messy characters I will continue to tell you to read this series.
August 7, 2024
I’d really like to be able to give this book 4 stars, just like the first, but I spent too much time being confused to justify it. I could grasp the magic system in the first book, but everything got dialed up to 11 here and I got lost. The conflict with the cosmic creatures was also difficult to wrap my head around—overall, the first book felt far more grounded than this. The worldbuilding is still super cool and I still liked the characters, but it did kinda suck to see the miscommunication be dragged out for another book. The characters’ choices make sense within the context of the story, but after a while, I get frustrated and just want them to sit down and have an adult conversation.
I’m curious to see how this series wraps up, still, though I do hope to enjoy the finale as much as I did book 1.
I’m curious to see how this series wraps up, still, though I do hope to enjoy the finale as much as I did book 1.
June 17, 2024
In the two months following Ahilya and Iravan's discovery about the earthrages, cosmic creatures struggle to break through the world. Architecture is disintegrating, so a Conclave is formed to discuss the future of the floating cities. Ahilya is now a councillor and wants to share information to liberate ordinary citizens. This desire is creating dangerous enemies, and Iravan must convince the Conclave that the truth about Ecstatic trajection is not unstable. He has difficulty with his own abilities, just as the barrier containing the cosmic beings is thinning. A storm is coming, and the couple are running out of time to save humanity.
The cosmic beings in this world once came and explored, and used their higher consciousness to traject into humans, the way humans currently traject into plants. They grew separate, with their disconnected humans retaining that ability to become architects. Those who didn't break up their soul connections were "ordinary" people in the world. They fear dissolving into nothing, losing consciousness, and completing the reincarnation cycles that humans are capable of. This puts them at odds with architects and sungineers alike, and the politicking continues as all the floating sister cities converge and try to determine what to do next. Ahilya wants to try saving everyone, regardless of trajection ability, and hopes to eventually have the cities land on the jungle floor and return to the world their ancestors left behind. Iravan faces battles of his own: architects of the conservative cities want his ability excised, the falcon he bonded to now wants control, and there are unbound cosmic entities that want to break through the barriers to destroy what they cannot understand.
This trilogy deals with the weighty topics of consciousness, individualism vs community and the needs of a couple to work together. Iravan and Ahilya often work at crossroads, just as they did before they discovered the existence of the cosmic entities. Their city, for all its adherence to tradition, is actually the most forward-thinking one of them all. Other cities want to cling to tradition, as there are now skyrages threatening the stability of the floating cities as well as earthrages rocking the planet's surface. As much as Iravan and Ahilya had theorized that trajection created these rages, other architects are unwilling to give up the power they have or consider alternate points of view. These abilities are dangerous, untested, and spreading like wildfire throughout the other cities. Councilors are willing to sacrifice individuals for the sake of entire cities, and it's hardly an easy task.
The conclusion of this volume is not what the characters or the reader would have thought it would be. It sets up the third book in the trilogy and furthers the conflicts between the couple, those in charge of the cities, and the cosmic beings. It remains a question of whose desire will win out in the end, and if the peace that comes from annihilation will be worth the price.
The cosmic beings in this world once came and explored, and used their higher consciousness to traject into humans, the way humans currently traject into plants. They grew separate, with their disconnected humans retaining that ability to become architects. Those who didn't break up their soul connections were "ordinary" people in the world. They fear dissolving into nothing, losing consciousness, and completing the reincarnation cycles that humans are capable of. This puts them at odds with architects and sungineers alike, and the politicking continues as all the floating sister cities converge and try to determine what to do next. Ahilya wants to try saving everyone, regardless of trajection ability, and hopes to eventually have the cities land on the jungle floor and return to the world their ancestors left behind. Iravan faces battles of his own: architects of the conservative cities want his ability excised, the falcon he bonded to now wants control, and there are unbound cosmic entities that want to break through the barriers to destroy what they cannot understand.
This trilogy deals with the weighty topics of consciousness, individualism vs community and the needs of a couple to work together. Iravan and Ahilya often work at crossroads, just as they did before they discovered the existence of the cosmic entities. Their city, for all its adherence to tradition, is actually the most forward-thinking one of them all. Other cities want to cling to tradition, as there are now skyrages threatening the stability of the floating cities as well as earthrages rocking the planet's surface. As much as Iravan and Ahilya had theorized that trajection created these rages, other architects are unwilling to give up the power they have or consider alternate points of view. These abilities are dangerous, untested, and spreading like wildfire throughout the other cities. Councilors are willing to sacrifice individuals for the sake of entire cities, and it's hardly an easy task.
The conclusion of this volume is not what the characters or the reader would have thought it would be. It sets up the third book in the trilogy and furthers the conflicts between the couple, those in charge of the cities, and the cosmic beings. It remains a question of whose desire will win out in the end, and if the peace that comes from annihilation will be worth the price.
August 8, 2024
I’m 97% sure Kritika Rao doesn’t know what an archaeologist is. Ahilya will be like hooie the archaeologist in me can’t wait to draw those animals. Dawg wut? And everyone’s reactions are always so dramatic. There’s always a cold realization and everyone literally gapes with their mouths hanging open when they’re surprised. And don’t even get me started on how often their “horror grows.” Or their eyes widen! I shouldn’t have read this book. The first one was fine and I remember enjoying things about it but after reading this one, I can no longer recall what. This book has completely overridden that one in my memory. And I finished that one last week.
I don’t like the way Iravan was written in this one at all. He spends so much time apologizing, even if just internally, and accepting responsibility for things that he definitely may have played some role in but is also certainly not responsible for. And rather than this being written as a flaw (i.e. the character who blames themselves for everything) it’s written like this is the better evolved version of him who has Stepped Up from book 1. But…this is not what people should strive for. I feel like part of this belongs to his place in the book as a man. For example, there’s a conversation between him and Ahilya about her pregnancy and she lashes out at him and he calmly, shamefully accepts her wrath and is like, You’re pregnant. You have a right to all your anger blah blah. Everyone has a right to their emotions, pregnant or not, but that doesn’t excuse anyone, pregnant or not, for being an asshole. Ahilya is so out of line sometimes but it’s never seen as an issue. And this is clearly because she’s the woman. Iravan is written in a way that goes above and beyond to show that he’s one of the good men; the ones who listen to women and respect their emotions. Listen, I’m a woman, I’m a feminist, I love women, I want to be listened to and respected. I just don’t like this version of male characters overcorrecting to the point of eliminating their own ability to experience realistic emotions. It’s like respecting Ahilya is Iravan’s personality now. Just make him a damn person. That’s all I ask. Ahilya will keep some massive, important secret from him and he’ll be like, Ahilya hadn’t trusted him to be able to handle it. She was right. Fuck off. She owed you that information. You’re condoning secrets in a marriage.
I’m spiraling. This is really just an escalation of complaints I had from the last book. I also feel like the plot got too out of hand too quickly. It’s a whole bunch of Stuff happening but it managed to feel like nothing was happening because not enough time was spent making me care about any of it before it all unfolded. Secondary characters just felt like accessories. The only relationship I had any interest in was Ahilya and her sister, which I do appreciate being brought up but it was done so sparingly that it almost felt like a tease. Yeah, I really didn’t like this one.
I don’t like the way Iravan was written in this one at all. He spends so much time apologizing, even if just internally, and accepting responsibility for things that he definitely may have played some role in but is also certainly not responsible for. And rather than this being written as a flaw (i.e. the character who blames themselves for everything) it’s written like this is the better evolved version of him who has Stepped Up from book 1. But…this is not what people should strive for. I feel like part of this belongs to his place in the book as a man. For example, there’s a conversation between him and Ahilya about her pregnancy and she lashes out at him and he calmly, shamefully accepts her wrath and is like, You’re pregnant. You have a right to all your anger blah blah. Everyone has a right to their emotions, pregnant or not, but that doesn’t excuse anyone, pregnant or not, for being an asshole. Ahilya is so out of line sometimes but it’s never seen as an issue. And this is clearly because she’s the woman. Iravan is written in a way that goes above and beyond to show that he’s one of the good men; the ones who listen to women and respect their emotions. Listen, I’m a woman, I’m a feminist, I love women, I want to be listened to and respected. I just don’t like this version of male characters overcorrecting to the point of eliminating their own ability to experience realistic emotions. It’s like respecting Ahilya is Iravan’s personality now. Just make him a damn person. That’s all I ask. Ahilya will keep some massive, important secret from him and he’ll be like, Ahilya hadn’t trusted him to be able to handle it. She was right. Fuck off. She owed you that information. You’re condoning secrets in a marriage.
I’m spiraling. This is really just an escalation of complaints I had from the last book. I also feel like the plot got too out of hand too quickly. It’s a whole bunch of Stuff happening but it managed to feel like nothing was happening because not enough time was spent making me care about any of it before it all unfolded. Secondary characters just felt like accessories. The only relationship I had any interest in was Ahilya and her sister, which I do appreciate being brought up but it was done so sparingly that it almost felt like a tease. Yeah, I really didn’t like this one.
July 13, 2024
In this second instalment of The Rages trilogy, Ahilya and Iravan are separated once again, each on their own life threatening pursuit of truth that may change everything they and their people believe about their existence. As the Earth rages intensify and trajection becomes less and less reliable, can they, their cities, and their marriage survive what is coming for them?
This series continues to blow me away with it’s massive scope and scale. The world Rao creates here is beautifully complex in its history, social structure, science and lore. The one drawback of this is, I probably could have benefited from a re-read of the first book before launching into this one, as there were definitely moments where I was hazy on the details and timeline from the first book, exacerbated slightly by the time jump, so I was left questioning were certain events being referenced ones I’d forgotten or ones that had taken place in the interim.
This book further builds on the blend of science fiction and fantasy introduced in the first, as we learn more about the history of trajection and architects, as well as the yakshas and earth rages. The introduction of the Conclave and thus, the sister ashrams expands this world even more, as we now see the many ways in which Ahilya and Iravan’s home differs from the other ashrams, and more of the inner politics and motivations of the council and its members come to light.
I was hoping to see more of Ahilya and Iravan actually interacting in this book as I find there relationship dynamic so fascinating, sadly that wasn’t to be. It was necessary for the narrative but I would have just liked to see their relationship explored through actual interactions rather than their individual thought processes. But it did make their few on-page interactions all the more heightened, ultimately working in the story’s favour.
The pacing overall was just slightly off, getting a handle on the timeline and passage of time was a struggle at times. Skipping two months between books to then have the events seemingly happen at breakneck speed over the course of three or four days, followed by a brief overview of the weeks in the aftermath, had the whole thing feeling just slightly off-kilter.
As this world increases in size and complexity, I’m really excited to see where the final instalment takes it and its characters as thy seem to have been forced into increasingly impossible situations.
Thank you Titan Books for my advanced review copy of this title, received in exchange for an honest review.
This series continues to blow me away with it’s massive scope and scale. The world Rao creates here is beautifully complex in its history, social structure, science and lore. The one drawback of this is, I probably could have benefited from a re-read of the first book before launching into this one, as there were definitely moments where I was hazy on the details and timeline from the first book, exacerbated slightly by the time jump, so I was left questioning were certain events being referenced ones I’d forgotten or ones that had taken place in the interim.
This book further builds on the blend of science fiction and fantasy introduced in the first, as we learn more about the history of trajection and architects, as well as the yakshas and earth rages. The introduction of the Conclave and thus, the sister ashrams expands this world even more, as we now see the many ways in which Ahilya and Iravan’s home differs from the other ashrams, and more of the inner politics and motivations of the council and its members come to light.
I was hoping to see more of Ahilya and Iravan actually interacting in this book as I find there relationship dynamic so fascinating, sadly that wasn’t to be. It was necessary for the narrative but I would have just liked to see their relationship explored through actual interactions rather than their individual thought processes. But it did make their few on-page interactions all the more heightened, ultimately working in the story’s favour.
The pacing overall was just slightly off, getting a handle on the timeline and passage of time was a struggle at times. Skipping two months between books to then have the events seemingly happen at breakneck speed over the course of three or four days, followed by a brief overview of the weeks in the aftermath, had the whole thing feeling just slightly off-kilter.
As this world increases in size and complexity, I’m really excited to see where the final instalment takes it and its characters as thy seem to have been forced into increasingly impossible situations.
Thank you Titan Books for my advanced review copy of this title, received in exchange for an honest review.
Read
June 1, 2024It's been almost a year since I read The Surviving Sky, so it took me a few chapters to settle back into the world and the magic system since it really is complex. I discovered afterwards that there's a glossary at the back! So take note if you're struggling to keep track of the magic. Once I had found my feet again though, I flew through the pages. Unrelenting a good title - it was almost nonstop action from start to finish!
As with book 1, the worldbuilding was incredible. Every little thing is connected to something else. The characters, the planet, the culture, the ashtas... they all link together in a multitude of ways and are constantly changing each other. I really enjoyed going deeper into how the ashrams are built and maintained in this instalment, and I also liked seeing characters from other ashrams come into play.
We also went a lot deeper into the magic system in this book. I admit I did struggle a bit here, as it was a lot to understand. However, we are learning things alongside Iravan, so I don't think everything is supposed to be crystal clear right away. Eventually it all made sense, and ultimately this fact didn't detract from my enjoyment of the story.
The plot really ramps up from the end of book 1, with Ahilya and Iravan's relationship again at the core of the story, both of them struggling with the relationship itself and the monumental tasks they are faced with. Rao writes her characters so wonderfully, their emotions are palpable and you can really feel their desires and pain through the pages.
Hindu philosophy is core again here, rebirth and one's duty playing huge roles, with Ahilya and Iravan pulling in different directions so that it makes it hard to know sometimes who you want to support! As I said at the start, it's action packed and the ending! No spoilers here but goodness me, I think book 3 is going to be epic.
Thank you so, so much to Titan Books for sending over a copy for me to read and review!
As with book 1, the worldbuilding was incredible. Every little thing is connected to something else. The characters, the planet, the culture, the ashtas... they all link together in a multitude of ways and are constantly changing each other. I really enjoyed going deeper into how the ashrams are built and maintained in this instalment, and I also liked seeing characters from other ashrams come into play.
We also went a lot deeper into the magic system in this book. I admit I did struggle a bit here, as it was a lot to understand. However, we are learning things alongside Iravan, so I don't think everything is supposed to be crystal clear right away. Eventually it all made sense, and ultimately this fact didn't detract from my enjoyment of the story.
The plot really ramps up from the end of book 1, with Ahilya and Iravan's relationship again at the core of the story, both of them struggling with the relationship itself and the monumental tasks they are faced with. Rao writes her characters so wonderfully, their emotions are palpable and you can really feel their desires and pain through the pages.
Hindu philosophy is core again here, rebirth and one's duty playing huge roles, with Ahilya and Iravan pulling in different directions so that it makes it hard to know sometimes who you want to support! As I said at the start, it's action packed and the ending! No spoilers here but goodness me, I think book 3 is going to be epic.
Thank you so, so much to Titan Books for sending over a copy for me to read and review!
June 12, 2024
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. It has not affected my opinions.
THE UNRELENTING EARTH takes the world-turning ideas of THE SURVIVING SKY and uses them to send the sky-cities plummeting towards disaster.
Not only does their home need to adapt to ecstatics, but the other cities. I really liked getting to see people from other cities, which are like nation states with their own rules and cultures. They come together in a UN like setting, and argue over the future. Are ecstatics to be trusted? Is Nakshar too "corrupted" in its traditions to be allowed to continue?
It was interesting to see these ideas explored from a range of perspectives. The dangers are understandable - Iravan isn't exactly helping matters at times - but the heavy handed approach from some is very hypocritical and overall shows a callous regard for life. Ahilya's fight to have non-architects seen as just as valuable comes to a head and I cheered on her actions when she deliberately undermined the architects.
The book is full of action and danger with the sky-cities under attack from the cosmic beings despite being supposedly safe in the air. The rate of action (and "uh-oh they're going to die" moments) increases exponentially as the book goes on, leading to an action packed finale.
The ending sets up the potential central conflict of the final book of the trilogy, a battle of ideologies that will see likely Ahilya and Iravan decide between their beliefs and each other.
THE UNRELENTING EARTH takes the world-turning ideas of THE SURVIVING SKY and uses them to send the sky-cities plummeting towards disaster.
Not only does their home need to adapt to ecstatics, but the other cities. I really liked getting to see people from other cities, which are like nation states with their own rules and cultures. They come together in a UN like setting, and argue over the future. Are ecstatics to be trusted? Is Nakshar too "corrupted" in its traditions to be allowed to continue?
It was interesting to see these ideas explored from a range of perspectives. The dangers are understandable - Iravan isn't exactly helping matters at times - but the heavy handed approach from some is very hypocritical and overall shows a callous regard for life. Ahilya's fight to have non-architects seen as just as valuable comes to a head and I cheered on her actions when she deliberately undermined the architects.
The book is full of action and danger with the sky-cities under attack from the cosmic beings despite being supposedly safe in the air. The rate of action (and "uh-oh they're going to die" moments) increases exponentially as the book goes on, leading to an action packed finale.
The ending sets up the potential central conflict of the final book of the trilogy, a battle of ideologies that will see likely Ahilya and Iravan decide between their beliefs and each other.
June 17, 2024
Thank you netgalley for the audiobook ARC! This was both a fantastic and devastating sequel in the series. I am so upset by the ending but I'm hoping for the best for the third book. This one seemed to engage me more than even the first book which is odd as it was much more political but still had a lot of action packed moments. I loved the scientific air of this and it's just such a unique book it's hard to describe other than to just shove it in people's hands and make them read it. The only thing about the audiobook I struggled with was sometimes there are more softspoken characters and the audio mixing made them SO QUIET that I had to really press my headphone into my ear to understand what they were saying.
July 31, 2024
I'm not currently showing there is a book three. So if this is the ending, it is a deeply unsatisfying one.
Even if there does end up being a book three, this book just didn't hit for me like the first one did. It just lacks... grounding. The magic system gets a little too convoluted and hard to follow with everyone in the Moment and the Deepness and the Resonance and who knows what else. Iravan is an arrogant asshole and Ahilya is bland. They seem to have just taken a massive step in the wrong direction from their book one selves.
The idea of having a concalve of the different cities should be cool, but it ultimately doesn't matter. it's just boring and nothing really happens.
Even if there does end up being a book three, this book just didn't hit for me like the first one did. It just lacks... grounding. The magic system gets a little too convoluted and hard to follow with everyone in the Moment and the Deepness and the Resonance and who knows what else. Iravan is an arrogant asshole and Ahilya is bland. They seem to have just taken a massive step in the wrong direction from their book one selves.
The idea of having a concalve of the different cities should be cool, but it ultimately doesn't matter. it's just boring and nothing really happens.
June 6, 2024
Arc Copy...The saga does continue and so does the protagonists struggles with their respective new discoveries from the previous novel. You can feel the tension as their old society is shaking from accepting + not accepting new ideas like the previous seen as dangerous "ecstasy" trajectory and the "monsters" in the jungles as natural norm, meanwhile the very earth and nature is raging even more so. Very much the ending very much hints another book, as there is hope but "there still work to be done".
June 29, 2024
Mind-bendingly original, THE UNRELENTING EARTH picks up the thread from the first installment in the Rages trilogy, continuing the saga of two remarkable individuals tasked with saving a society built on eons of tradition, class separation, and reliance on powers assigned to some, controlling the future of them all. At turns, heartbreaking and heart-pounding, with twists that keep coming, I can't wait to see how the trilogy wraps!
June 13, 2024
This was boring and over complicated for no reason. I would not recommend this book unless you are fascinated by the premise and loved the first book. I would not continue if there is more in this series.
June 22, 2024
I liked the first novel in this series but there's some doubts as it not always worked.
This is a faster and well done novel that kept hooked.
Loved it, can't wait the next novel
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
This is a faster and well done novel that kept hooked.
Loved it, can't wait the next novel
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
July 7, 2024
This book was great just like the first one. I can never quite grasp what is happening with the moment, deepness, conduit, etc., and some of these parts get extra wordy. But I really enjoy the storyline, world building, and how significantly the plot pulls me in.
July 16, 2024
I liked the first book better. This one was still good, but almost entirely ruled by th4 complicated magic in this world. Some it felt like a whirlwind of indistinguishable magic moments. But still enjoyed it.
Shelved as 'dnf'
July 18, 2024DNF at 19%. The first book in the series wasn't my favorite and I hoped some of the issues would've been ironed out in the second book but l'm seeing a pattern. Maybe it's the writing style but it's just not for me.
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