I enjoyed this book! The world and character building were great! I read book one before this but it is so well written that if i had not i would have still enjoyed it! I cant wait to read book 3! ( )

This is book 2 in the series, I did not read book 1. This book is well written enough that not having read the first book in the series did not lessen my enjoyment or understanding of the plot. It's a very different plot line and that was nice to see. The pacing of the book could use a little work as some bits are rather slow and others felt rushed. At times the main character was annoying but I think that means it was well down as I was feeling things.

The premise was great, the characters were interesting and the world building had been well thought out. Its very much a series book though and leaves you without a true ending that wraps everything up. I'd read the next book for sure.
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I eagerly looked forward to reading this the second book in the Neath Trilogy. It did not disappoint This one is equally clever and imaginative. The world is amazingly coherent and well drawn at the same time totally weird and fascinating.What a writer! I am anxiously awaiting the third, but then how could you top these two? I don't doubt it will happen. I was given the first two books by the author, & under no obligation to give a positive review. ( )

I loved Herrick's End and was thrilled to continue the story. The characters, world-building and plot are so engaging, I could hardly put the book down. The author does a good job of reminding the reader of what happens in the first book. I can't imagine skipping any part of this story, but strictly speaking, you could read this as a standalone book.
There are lots of creative twists and turns in this book as is expected. The descriptions are so good that I can really imagine myself if these astounding worlds! These are the kind of stories that make me really want to have a pot of tea with the author. What an interesting mind to create such a world and creative solutions to very real problems of The Brickside.
As with HE, there are some references to domestic violence and torture but the mentions are brief and not very descriptive or gory.
The ARC I received had quite a few errors that need to be corrected, but I'm sure those will be polished by final publication. ( )

Ok this was a fun book! I read Book 1 (Herrick's End) just before this one and I'm loving the direction the author is taking the story. The fantastical and spooky elements (I need more from the witches stat) are a fun ride, but are made to feel more realistic with the inclusion of the human characters.

What I liked:
- Ollie continues to be a relatable character - he would do anything for his friends and has a big heart, but continues to doubt himself at times. He is an easy character to root for and I have my suspicions there will be some more truths revealed about him in the next book.
- The supporting characters are wonderful. They provide some heart and comedic relief. I appreciate how they have become a big family, something Ollie didn't have brickside.
- More action! This book felt more exciting than the first. I think the first book focused a bit more on the world building and this one increased more on the plot side of things.
- The twist! Even though I knew something was up with George Harrick, especially with the title - I did not expect that reveal.
- The set-up for book 3 is perfect! Some of my questions were answered in this book, but I have many more. If book 3 was out, I would be starting it asap.

What I didn't like:
- This book would do incredible with a map or some kind of visual aid. That's more of a personal preference though because it helps me visualize the story a lot better. I also think sketches of some of the creatures or characters would be incredible.
- I need more on the witches' backgrounds. This is one area that has been hinted at in the past, but not fully explored yet in the present. I'm really interested in how they fit into the story and hope they have a bigger role in the third book.
- There were a few parts of the story that felt as though they dragged on and the pace could have been picked up. ( )