Dame Grace Hensley, the newly appointed Chancellor of the island nation of Aeland, doesn’t quite match her name—she’s impulsive, vibrantly passionate, physically capable to the extreme and willing to risk everything to protect those she loves. Author C.L. Polk takes Grace on a rollercoaster of a journey through a fantastical dystopia that nonetheless feels organic, genuine and believable in Stormsong, the sequel to their acclaimed debut, Witchmark.
Polk’s accessible, elegant writing makes it possible for readers new to the series to jump in and immerse themselves in their magical vision of an alternate Edwardian England, which incorporates concepts that are no stranger to the contemporary reader. Stormsong’s multi-layered plot includes an overarching war between classes and races, including the subjugated and unfortunate witches of Aeland, who possess otherworldly mystical powers, but are discriminated against because of fear, hate and disgust.
Stormsong is also full to the cauldron’s brim with dark family secrets and complicated dynamics. Grace’s brother, Miles, is a witch and advocates for their cause, while her murderous, imprisoned father whispers plans and lies to those in power. Prince Severin of Aeland seems to be a trustworthy ally, but still harbors some shady habits and keeps strange company. And most fascinatingly, Grace continues to cross paths with fervid reporter and former heiress Avia Jessup, with whom she is utterly entranced. Grace must figure out whom she can trust and whom she must abandon in her mission to preserve order as a massive winter storm approaches and Aeland teeters on the edge of revolution.
Readers will grow increasingly anxious as Grace’s world slips into war, genocide and corruption, but her budding romance with Avia adds warmth to this otherwise chilling tale of deceit and dishonesty.
