ALC Book Review: Dark Star Burning, Ash Falls White (Song of the Last Kingdom #2) by Amelie Wen Zhao

Rating: ★★★
Audience: YA Fantasy
Length: 464 pages
Author: Amelie Wen Zhao
Publisher: Delacorte
Release Date: January 2nd, 2024
Image & Other Reviews on: Goodreads

BOOK SUMMARY:

The epic sequel to the book Song of Silver, Flame Like Night, is a fast-paced, riveting YA fantasy inspired by the mythology and folklore of ancient China.

Years ago, the Elantian colonizers invaded Lan’s homeland and killed her mother in their search to uncover the Last Kingdom’s greatest the location of its legendary four Demon Gods. Lan’s mother devoted her life to destroying the Demon Gods, and Lan is determined to finish her mission. Yet, there are others searching for the gods, too.

Zen knew his soul was forfeit the moment he made a deal with the Demon God known as the Black Tortoise, but he’s willing to lose himself if it means saving the Kingdom–and the girl–he loves. But to crush the colonizers who have invaded his land he needs more power than even a single Demon God can provide. He needs an army. And he knows exactly where he can find it–in the undead army his great grandfather lead decades ago.

The Elantians may have stolen their throne, but the battle for the Last Kingdom has only begun.

Thank you to PRHAudio for the gifted audiobook.

I DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH THIS.

I am once again facing a disappointing finale/sequel and I am a bit touchy about that fact. This ending did not work for me, nor do I think it’s great for the young adult category. It’s a bit iffy on multiple fronts and I’m salty.

I can see the love of story telling and mythology and folklore all woven in. There’s some pretty prose and writing and everything does have that magical feel to it, like you really are reading a fairytale. The audiobook is SO GOOD. If you’re going to attempt this one (because I need to discuss) then that’s the way to go.

The world building and magic system still felt convoluted to me. I did get kind of mixed up on who’s side I was supposed to be rooting for and why things were happening and why the magic system was doing it’s thing. I don’t know. This wasn’t all I hoped for. Beautiful cover though.

Overall audience notes: