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Inheritance of Magic #2
An Instruction in Shadow
The ultra-rich control magic—the same way they control everything else—but Stephen Oakwood may just beat them at their own game in this exhilarating contemporary fantasy from the author of the Alex Verus novels.
Stephen Oakwood has emerged victorious against the schemes of his aristocratic family. Now he finally has the opportunity to do what he’s been wanting to do for a long time: track down his father.
But doing so won’t be easy. Stephen’s not so isolated any more, but the contacts he’s making in themagical world—everyone from the corporation he works for to the mother he’s just beginning to reconnect with—all have agendas of their own. And now a new group is emerging from the shadows, calling themselves the Winged.
Their leader, the mysterious Byron, promises that he can show Stephen how to find his father...but he wants something in return.
Following that trail will throw Stephen into greater danger than he’s ever faced before. To survive, he’ll need to use all of his tricks and sigls, and pick up some new ones. Only then will he be able to prevail against his enemies...and find out who’s really pulling the strings.
Stephen Oakwood has emerged victorious against the schemes of his aristocratic family. Now he finally has the opportunity to do what he’s been wanting to do for a long time: track down his father.
But doing so won’t be easy. Stephen’s not so isolated any more, but the contacts he’s making in themagical world—everyone from the corporation he works for to the mother he’s just beginning to reconnect with—all have agendas of their own. And now a new group is emerging from the shadows, calling themselves the Winged.
Their leader, the mysterious Byron, promises that he can show Stephen how to find his father...but he wants something in return.
Following that trail will throw Stephen into greater danger than he’s ever faced before. To survive, he’ll need to use all of his tricks and sigls, and pick up some new ones. Only then will he be able to prevail against his enemies...and find out who’s really pulling the strings.
336 pages, Paperback
First published October 15, 2024
133 people are currently reading
5,298 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 207 reviews
October 15, 2024
Happy Release Day
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
Stephen and his trusty and enhanced cat Hobbs are at it again in this interesting world of drucraft that Benedict Jacka has created. Stephen was getting the hand of finding wells and either using them to make nifty magical gems to use in fights or selling them to Linford's for some cash.
Stephen has gotten into a pretty good rhythm. Find a well, protect it, sell it and make some money. Get a stash of cash so he has some buffer and repeat. He hasn't looked for his dad in awhile but now that he is on his feet it is time to see if he can locate the man that disappeared over three years ago. Thing is every time he tries everything in his life goes wrong and Stephen ends up fighting for his life, on the wrong side of someone powerful and just trying to figure out how to get out of the mess he has ended up in.
I am really enjoying this series. I think much like Jacka's Alex Verus series, this one just keeps getting a little better every book. In Inheritance, we had to learn a lot about this world and the wells. Now that the reader has that foundation it seemed like there was a lot more action and world development happening. We get to find out not just more of the surface economy that is happening within the drucraft world, there is also a shadow economy. There are factions within the magical system Stephen will have to maneuver through.
Stephen is an interesting character and I can't help but be on his side as he tries to learn about the history between his father and mother and why she left all those years ago. The interactions that he has not only with his sister but also, Calhoun, heir to his family's magical dynasty make me hope that at least he will have some family to look out for him, at least a little. Hobbs adds something for Stephen to interact with when he doesn't have friends around. It is a good way to move the story.
Overall I love all the potential this series seems to have. Stephen isn't the most powerful drucraft wielder but he does seem to have a good knack for some of the foundational an finer points that will probably make him formidable in the future.
This ended on a great teaser to make the reader really excited for the next book. While there isn't really any hint of a romance yet, I do see the potential for something to happen with one of the ladies in Stephen's life down the road. The more I read about this world the more interested I am in it.
Some spoilers for book 1
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
Stephen and his trusty and enhanced cat Hobbs are at it again in this interesting world of drucraft that Benedict Jacka has created. Stephen was getting the hand of finding wells and either using them to make nifty magical gems to use in fights or selling them to Linford's for some cash.
Stephen has gotten into a pretty good rhythm. Find a well, protect it, sell it and make some money. Get a stash of cash so he has some buffer and repeat. He hasn't looked for his dad in awhile but now that he is on his feet it is time to see if he can locate the man that disappeared over three years ago. Thing is every time he tries everything in his life goes wrong and Stephen ends up fighting for his life, on the wrong side of someone powerful and just trying to figure out how to get out of the mess he has ended up in.
I am really enjoying this series. I think much like Jacka's Alex Verus series, this one just keeps getting a little better every book. In Inheritance, we had to learn a lot about this world and the wells. Now that the reader has that foundation it seemed like there was a lot more action and world development happening. We get to find out not just more of the surface economy that is happening within the drucraft world, there is also a shadow economy. There are factions within the magical system Stephen will have to maneuver through.
Stephen is an interesting character and I can't help but be on his side as he tries to learn about the history between his father and mother and why she left all those years ago. The interactions that he has not only with his sister but also, Calhoun, heir to his family's magical dynasty make me hope that at least he will have some family to look out for him, at least a little. Hobbs adds something for Stephen to interact with when he doesn't have friends around. It is a good way to move the story.
Overall I love all the potential this series seems to have. Stephen isn't the most powerful drucraft wielder but he does seem to have a good knack for some of the foundational an finer points that will probably make him formidable in the future.
This ended on a great teaser to make the reader really excited for the next book. While there isn't really any hint of a romance yet, I do see the potential for something to happen with one of the ladies in Stephen's life down the road. The more I read about this world the more interested I am in it.
Some spoilers for book 1
November 4, 2024
Those who know me know Benedict Jacka’s Alex Verus series is my favorite series of all time. That being said I was on so much copium trying to get through the first 75% of this book. This was a rough read. It suffered from the same issues as the first book with heavy handed but poor world building, bland characters, a lack of plot or direction, and the most annoying idiotic main character ever. My husband and I read this at the same time and we have spend literal hours complaining about this book as we worked our way through. I was so so so close to dropping this series telling my husband “I am only continuing because it’s by Benedict Jacka and I have faith in him� and by some miracle my faith worked out. We will see how book 3 goes but man am I on the edge of my seat unable to wait now. It may have taken 2 books but I am gripped by this plot and can’t wait to see where it goes.
September 4, 2024
Fully enjoyable and a great read. My favorite parts of this book were as our protagonist tries to navigate the magical world, he learns new things about the dynamics of it and grows because of that. His friends and cat are a great addition to the story, and made me smile.
However, I did like book 1 in the series better. This novel just feels like it's missing the propulsive stakes of the first book.
Thanks to Netgalley and Ace for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
However, I did like book 1 in the series better. This novel just feels like it's missing the propulsive stakes of the first book.
Thanks to Netgalley and Ace for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
October 11, 2024
Thanks to LibroFM for the ALC.
This was a good second book, it expanded the world a bit, had a few more adventures and pushed the story along. It was mostly leveling up both skill wise and friends wise so nothing too earth shattering and it ended on a bit of a cliff hanger so no five star rating. I am looking forward to the next book but might not get published before I forgot this series existed.
This was a good second book, it expanded the world a bit, had a few more adventures and pushed the story along. It was mostly leveling up both skill wise and friends wise so nothing too earth shattering and it ended on a bit of a cliff hanger so no five star rating. I am looking forward to the next book but might not get published before I forgot this series existed.
October 18, 2024
4.5 Stars
Stephen Oakwood had been training with his father in the art of drucrafting (sort of magic) until his father went missing. Stephen didn’t know there was a whole world of drucrafters, with a hierarchy, politics, and grabs for more power. He learned the hard way, through his conniving family, House Ashford, in the last book.
Now, Stephen has a bit more information, a lot more sigls for defense and offense, and a way to make money. Now that he has a few things sorted, Stephen is determined to find his father. However, things go bad in the job department. Stephen narrowly fends off a few attacks. Byron from the mysterious “Winged� claims he can find Stephen’s father and will give him the information if Stephen joins. Also, Stephen meets with his mother for the first time to get answers. Can’t say I like that woman.
Stephen has landed in a dangerous world, and for good reason, he’s suspicious of everyone. Thankfully, he has a few in his corner, like his friend, Colin, and his trusty super cat, Hobbs! Omg! I love Hobbs! I laughed my head off in one scene with him!
An Instruction in Shadow was a riveting second installment! The world created is original and interesting, with information weaved in a way that informs without interrupting the pace. I’m eager for the next book since this one left off in a to-be-continued situation!
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Stephen Oakwood had been training with his father in the art of drucrafting (sort of magic) until his father went missing. Stephen didn’t know there was a whole world of drucrafters, with a hierarchy, politics, and grabs for more power. He learned the hard way, through his conniving family, House Ashford, in the last book.
Now, Stephen has a bit more information, a lot more sigls for defense and offense, and a way to make money. Now that he has a few things sorted, Stephen is determined to find his father. However, things go bad in the job department. Stephen narrowly fends off a few attacks. Byron from the mysterious “Winged� claims he can find Stephen’s father and will give him the information if Stephen joins. Also, Stephen meets with his mother for the first time to get answers. Can’t say I like that woman.
Stephen has landed in a dangerous world, and for good reason, he’s suspicious of everyone. Thankfully, he has a few in his corner, like his friend, Colin, and his trusty super cat, Hobbs! Omg! I love Hobbs! I laughed my head off in one scene with him!
An Instruction in Shadow was a riveting second installment! The world created is original and interesting, with information weaved in a way that informs without interrupting the pace. I’m eager for the next book since this one left off in a to-be-continued situation!
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
October 15, 2024
Stephen Oakwood runs into trouble when he shares information about his craft with a friend. This has him suspended from his job and looking for other sources of income to hone his craft and wield drucraft. Like Jacka’s Alex Verus series, the Inheritance of Magic series gets better with each book. I really like the voice of Stephen. His new friends and enhanced cat named Hobbs make delightful sidekicks.
Now that he has been suspended from Linford and not receiving cash for finding wells, which contain the magic needed for drucraft, he has taken on side jobs from less than reputable sources, including his mother’s family. Everyone seems to have their own agenda, and Stephen has to navigate them all while trying to find his missing father.
This second book was more action-packed as Jacka set up the world in the previous novel and could flesh it out further in book two. Calhoun, the heir to his family’s dynasty, may be an ally, but I am still wary, especially if Stephen continues to strengthen his skills. We meet Stephen’s mother, come across other skilled wielders, and meet Byron, someone determined to recruit Stephen.
The story that unfolds was well-paced, providing answers to some of Stephen’s questions while expanding our knowledge of the magic world. Stephen is clever and for someone new to this world, often sees the bigger picture. I enjoyed watching his skills improve as well as his understanding of the magic. The story ends on a bit of a cliffhanger with tidbits about things to come.
Will Watt narrates and has become the voice of Stephen Oakwood. He enhances the overall tale and offers unique voices for each of the characters making listening my preferred choice. Jacka is a master storyteller and his writing lends itself perfectly to this format.
Fans of well done urban fantasy, unique magical systems and underdogs will want to begin this series. As with most urban fantasy, I recommend listening in the order of release.
Now that he has been suspended from Linford and not receiving cash for finding wells, which contain the magic needed for drucraft, he has taken on side jobs from less than reputable sources, including his mother’s family. Everyone seems to have their own agenda, and Stephen has to navigate them all while trying to find his missing father.
This second book was more action-packed as Jacka set up the world in the previous novel and could flesh it out further in book two. Calhoun, the heir to his family’s dynasty, may be an ally, but I am still wary, especially if Stephen continues to strengthen his skills. We meet Stephen’s mother, come across other skilled wielders, and meet Byron, someone determined to recruit Stephen.
The story that unfolds was well-paced, providing answers to some of Stephen’s questions while expanding our knowledge of the magic world. Stephen is clever and for someone new to this world, often sees the bigger picture. I enjoyed watching his skills improve as well as his understanding of the magic. The story ends on a bit of a cliffhanger with tidbits about things to come.
Will Watt narrates and has become the voice of Stephen Oakwood. He enhances the overall tale and offers unique voices for each of the characters making listening my preferred choice. Jacka is a master storyteller and his writing lends itself perfectly to this format.
Fans of well done urban fantasy, unique magical systems and underdogs will want to begin this series. As with most urban fantasy, I recommend listening in the order of release.
October 19, 2024
3.5 stars but rounding up.
Not as good as the first book but still quick and entertaining
Not as good as the first book but still quick and entertaining
October 22, 2024
An Instruction in Shadow picks up where An Inheritance of Magic left off. Stephen’s world is still filled with magic and danger, but somehow the most consistent threat he faces is mundane. His job hunting, money issues, and his need to get better at over-explained magic system remain central to the plot. Yes, Stephen’s life is hard, but being reminded of it every few pages got old quickly.
Fans of hard magic systems will find lots to love in the detailed drucraft, but since I’m not one of them, I often felt like participating in a lecture I have little interest in. Sure, it’s nice to see how drucraft functions in the world of businesses, but the sense of wonder fades when it feels like you’re reading a textbook.
Stephen himself continues to be likable and relatable, but his development feels uneven—one minute he’s stumbling through life, the next he’s suddenly adept at whatever new magic or skill is needed to get out of a scrape. It’s like the story gives him whatever cheat code he needs for the moment. After a while, it feels a little too convenient.
That said, there are still bright spots. Hobbes, Stephen’s cat, is an excellent character :P The subplot including Stephen’s father has lots of promise. The cliffhanger ending might frustrate some readers, but it made me curious enough to consider picking up the next book.
In short, An Instruction in Shadow is a mixed bag. If you’re already invested in the world, you will enjoy its complexities. But for me, the balance between action, worldbuilding, and character growth felt off. Here’s hoping the next book in the series dials down the drucraft lectures and gives Stephen a little more focus—and a few more wins that don’t feel like they came from thin air.
Audiobook narration: Good, but not extraordinary,
Fans of hard magic systems will find lots to love in the detailed drucraft, but since I’m not one of them, I often felt like participating in a lecture I have little interest in. Sure, it’s nice to see how drucraft functions in the world of businesses, but the sense of wonder fades when it feels like you’re reading a textbook.
Stephen himself continues to be likable and relatable, but his development feels uneven—one minute he’s stumbling through life, the next he’s suddenly adept at whatever new magic or skill is needed to get out of a scrape. It’s like the story gives him whatever cheat code he needs for the moment. After a while, it feels a little too convenient.
That said, there are still bright spots. Hobbes, Stephen’s cat, is an excellent character :P The subplot including Stephen’s father has lots of promise. The cliffhanger ending might frustrate some readers, but it made me curious enough to consider picking up the next book.
In short, An Instruction in Shadow is a mixed bag. If you’re already invested in the world, you will enjoy its complexities. But for me, the balance between action, worldbuilding, and character growth felt off. Here’s hoping the next book in the series dials down the drucraft lectures and gives Stephen a little more focus—and a few more wins that don’t feel like they came from thin air.
Audiobook narration: Good, but not extraordinary,
July 23, 2024
Oh. my. word! That was so good. Benedick Jacka did it again! And this book ends on a torturous cliffhanger and I must WAIT for the next book!
This is book 2 of the story of Stephen Oakwood. He's seen a magical world behind the world the rest of us live in and he's gaining a lot of experience not being killed. He's got a few good friends, some sketchy family members, a mysterious mentor, and some enemies that are trying to murder him.
This was such a fun installment to the series. I hate that I have to wait so long for the next book because that was great!
I received this for free as an advanced reader copy and I'm just bummed that I can't know what happens next.
This is book 2 of the story of Stephen Oakwood. He's seen a magical world behind the world the rest of us live in and he's gaining a lot of experience not being killed. He's got a few good friends, some sketchy family members, a mysterious mentor, and some enemies that are trying to murder him.
This was such a fun installment to the series. I hate that I have to wait so long for the next book because that was great!
I received this for free as an advanced reader copy and I'm just bummed that I can't know what happens next.
December 21, 2024
Brilliant! I love the main character Stephen and his approach to life and the world of drucraft. He is managing to survive hostile situations, discovering talents he didn’t know he had, making allies and continuing his search for answers as to his dad’s whereabouts. Benedict Jacka really knows how to craft appealing underdog characters and to have his readers cheering them on. I loved this second in the series and am already craving the next one. Many thanks to NetGalley for an arc of this book.
November 24, 2024
I thought that the first book was half a book so I guess this is the second half. Not much happening in the plot but there is plenty of teenagers (I know they are supposed to be older) being angry and saying "fine!!"and generally being really bad att being even slightly rational. Ending very abruptly on a cliffhanger which I dont like.
November 16, 2024
This second book picks up right where the interesting first book left off. I felt like it was a lot more interesting as there was not as much description of the magic as it was very elaborately discussed in the first one. I did feel that the author tried to reboot some of the desperation of searching for the job that was prevalent in the first novel, and that didn't quite work for me. It quickly moved on and became a very captivating story with a very intriguing mystery behind it. I really enjoyed seeing the faster pace of the novel. Benedict Jacka definitely has a way of slowly captivating his reader and pulling them in to a very intriguing view of a magical city with politics intricately weaved in. I eagerly look forward to the next installment in this series.
October 22, 2024
Alright, I was waiting on this book for a while and I gotta say it's a letdown. It's passably strange how none of the story really gets you attached to any of the characters. In the first book, it was only Hobbes (the protagonist's cat) that evoked any kind of emotional theater when he got nearly killed. There were mysterious veils around certain characters that hinted at some enigmatic personas whose motives were elusive enough to make the reader fill in the blanks and perk up once the Stephen had interactions with them or pursued knowing more about them. It turns out the reality is far more drab than your imagination could fill... There's no winning any ground in this book. The priest remains a question mark, and his philosophical teachings run long and empty ironically. Stephen meets his mom and right away they have full undisclosed conversations off the page that amount to nothing apparently because Stephen says so to the reader (not kidding). Interactions with his mother are one big shrug. Mind you meeting her was literally the cliffhanger of the 1st book?! Right away in this 2nd book, it's wrapped up as "yeah we met up more and she won't tell me anything!! Gosh I am so mad!". Wild. Conversations with the priest seemed more in-depth than conversations with his own mother who abandoned him as a child because it serves Stephen's drucraft/Winged cult investigation more to talk to the priest. But the author turns down the stakes enough where this doesn't actually matter. There's no actual danger to Stephen.
Stephen also becomes more hollow in this book. It's heightened by the cast of characters around Stephen like Colin and those faceless boys at the pub and Ivy who serve only to be annoyances to Stephen to drive an inconsequential plotline that gets Stephen to become a raider to move up the ranks at Lindfort. It's worth mentioning because as a reader, I'm looking for actual relationships and story arcs between characters and the book keeps dangling carrots with nothing to munch on. What is the point of these developments if the opera between the characters is shallow? The villain Byron is also a floppy wristed antagonist with no bite because again, the book doesn't expand on much at all in all potential avenues (friends, enemies, love, or family).
It's almost like a third of an actual book to be frank. You can read it all in a few hours at most. It's all these ramp-ups that seem like they're going to culminate in moments of "oh now I care about this character and interactions with them because there was a reveal to make them much more interesting to some subplot" but none of that happens. The characters all seem like fruit flies around Stephen. It's utterly bizarre. His father is still missing by the end of the 2nd book (for years mind you, so let's barely expand on that mystery until the last 5 pages). What's another 5 years? His father is obviously alive so it doesn't matter how long the mystery drags. His mother is out running errands for the Ashfords after exhausting Stephen and the reader with a voided personality. Her fate is inconsequential seemingly (just like his father's). Stephen's half-sister randomly pops in to Stephen's brain and he decides to talk to her again for an unsurprisingly boring tangent where her demon doggy helps Stephen appear competent to Lindford in an organized raid. (Again, who cares cuz nothing becomes of anything in this sequel).
Honestly, boo.
Stephen also becomes more hollow in this book. It's heightened by the cast of characters around Stephen like Colin and those faceless boys at the pub and Ivy who serve only to be annoyances to Stephen to drive an inconsequential plotline that gets Stephen to become a raider to move up the ranks at Lindfort. It's worth mentioning because as a reader, I'm looking for actual relationships and story arcs between characters and the book keeps dangling carrots with nothing to munch on. What is the point of these developments if the opera between the characters is shallow? The villain Byron is also a floppy wristed antagonist with no bite because again, the book doesn't expand on much at all in all potential avenues (friends, enemies, love, or family).
It's almost like a third of an actual book to be frank. You can read it all in a few hours at most. It's all these ramp-ups that seem like they're going to culminate in moments of "oh now I care about this character and interactions with them because there was a reveal to make them much more interesting to some subplot" but none of that happens. The characters all seem like fruit flies around Stephen. It's utterly bizarre. His father is still missing by the end of the 2nd book (for years mind you, so let's barely expand on that mystery until the last 5 pages). What's another 5 years? His father is obviously alive so it doesn't matter how long the mystery drags. His mother is out running errands for the Ashfords after exhausting Stephen and the reader with a voided personality. Her fate is inconsequential seemingly (just like his father's). Stephen's half-sister randomly pops in to Stephen's brain and he decides to talk to her again for an unsurprisingly boring tangent where her demon doggy helps Stephen appear competent to Lindford in an organized raid. (Again, who cares cuz nothing becomes of anything in this sequel).
Honestly, boo.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2024
Topnotch Urban Fantasy
Stephen faces enemies old and new, aided by his cat, Hobbes. Couldn’t put it down!
Much like the author’s Verus series, each book is getting better and better. An Instruction in Shadow bursts with action and tension, as Stephen struggles to decode what happened between his long-absent mother and still-missing father.
Not only do the Ashfords still keep involving him in their power struggles, but now the mysterious person calling himself Byron is hell-bent on recruiting Stephen too.
And even if Stephen didn’t have enemies on all sides, his precarious financial situation keeps forcing him into risky encounters!
Great addition to this series, and can’t wait for book 3. This review based on an ARC.
Stephen faces enemies old and new, aided by his cat, Hobbes. Couldn’t put it down!
Much like the author’s Verus series, each book is getting better and better. An Instruction in Shadow bursts with action and tension, as Stephen struggles to decode what happened between his long-absent mother and still-missing father.
Not only do the Ashfords still keep involving him in their power struggles, but now the mysterious person calling himself Byron is hell-bent on recruiting Stephen too.
And even if Stephen didn’t have enemies on all sides, his precarious financial situation keeps forcing him into risky encounters!
Great addition to this series, and can’t wait for book 3. This review based on an ARC.
November 19, 2024
A book that goes nowhere, with an MC that doesn't grow. The book felt unfinished and a lot of themes that were explored or started were left hanging in the air
e.g.
There are many such story-lines that are left hanging. Hopefully they get picked up in the future books
e.g.
There are many such story-lines that are left hanging. Hopefully they get picked up in the future books
December 25, 2024
This was a big fat nothing of a novel. There is very little of substance happening in it, true there is a lot of additional information on the Ashwood family, but I do miss a plot pertinent to this novel. Second books, are notoriously difficult as they mean to expand on the world anf setting, established in the first novel.
I’m rather disappointed by Mr Jacka, as I know him capable of writing much better stories.
I’m rather disappointed by Mr Jacka, as I know him capable of writing much better stories.
January 3, 2025
I feel like this book had a lot of potential and it just went around and around.
Then it left you on a cliff hanger.
Hoping this series really takes off, but not sure if I am fully invested in it.
Then it left you on a cliff hanger.
Hoping this series really takes off, but not sure if I am fully invested in it.
October 14, 2024
Thank you #partners @acebookspub @berkleypub @prhaudio for my #gifted copies. #BerkleyPartner #BerkleyIG #PenguinRandomHousePartner
An Instruction in Shadow
An Inheritance of Magic #2
Benedict Jacka
Available now
It's always hard to review books in a series without giving away what happens in previous books, but I'll do my best to be vague. 🫶🏼
📖 An Instruction in Shadow picks up where An Inheritance of Magic leaves off. Stephen Oakwood is now integrated into the high stakes, dangerous, magical world that he was once an outsider to, and uses his connections to attempt to track down his missing father and continue growing his drucraft skill. Surrounded by a mix of enemies and allies, Stephen must navigate hidden agendas and unimaginable dangers.
💭 An Instruction in Shadow is an adventurous, mysterious, action-packed follow-up to An Inheritance of Magic. I loved the first book of the series and couldn't wait to dive back into this magical world of power and politics! The story is engaging, accessible, and intelligently plotted, with never a dull moment. I especially appreciate the thought-provoking way many of the themes parallel real life. All in all, a solid book two with a cliffhanger ending that has me craving book three!
🎧 I paired my print copy with the audiobook, and adored Will Watt's narration! Watt is fantastic and believable; He *becomes* Stephen Oakwood. I couldn't get enough!
� If you like politically-charged urban fantasy, you won't want to miss this series!
📌 Books need to be read in order
📌 Both books available now
4.5 rounded up
An Instruction in Shadow
An Inheritance of Magic #2
Benedict Jacka
Available now
It's always hard to review books in a series without giving away what happens in previous books, but I'll do my best to be vague. 🫶🏼
📖 An Instruction in Shadow picks up where An Inheritance of Magic leaves off. Stephen Oakwood is now integrated into the high stakes, dangerous, magical world that he was once an outsider to, and uses his connections to attempt to track down his missing father and continue growing his drucraft skill. Surrounded by a mix of enemies and allies, Stephen must navigate hidden agendas and unimaginable dangers.
💭 An Instruction in Shadow is an adventurous, mysterious, action-packed follow-up to An Inheritance of Magic. I loved the first book of the series and couldn't wait to dive back into this magical world of power and politics! The story is engaging, accessible, and intelligently plotted, with never a dull moment. I especially appreciate the thought-provoking way many of the themes parallel real life. All in all, a solid book two with a cliffhanger ending that has me craving book three!
🎧 I paired my print copy with the audiobook, and adored Will Watt's narration! Watt is fantastic and believable; He *becomes* Stephen Oakwood. I couldn't get enough!
� If you like politically-charged urban fantasy, you won't want to miss this series!
📌 Books need to be read in order
📌 Both books available now
4.5 rounded up
November 5, 2024
Up till half way through the book I hated everyone and was furious with Stephen for being so stupid. The build up with how poor Stephen is and how rich his extended family is was quite annoying to go through. His relationship with his mom and all of their dialogue gave me physical pain to read. His conversation with Charles was a little frustrating because he is smart but for some reason he acts like the dumbest Mf alive.
The last 5 chapters of the book saved it though. I see that Stephen was annoying and dumb but that was to gather all of this information to go through a leg stab wound chrysalis. And when he emerged from the other side he was a new man. A crazy man with actual motivation to get shit done.
I am unfortunately very excited for the 3rd book bc it’s boutta be so fire.
The last 5 chapters of the book saved it though. I see that Stephen was annoying and dumb but that was to gather all of this information to go through a leg stab wound chrysalis. And when he emerged from the other side he was a new man. A crazy man with actual motivation to get shit done.
I am unfortunately very excited for the 3rd book bc it’s boutta be so fire.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2024
New release alert! An Instruction of Shadow is a strong second entry in Benedict Jacka's Stephen Oakwood series. The first half of our review is non-spoiler and then we transition into full spoiler territory.
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October 24, 2024
This book continues with Stephen Oakwood trying to find out more about his missing father - and in between he learns stuffs from his mother (), gets more understanding about orporations and how they deal with Wells (), and also getting more "threats" from Byron ()
It ends with Stephen getting a coded letter from his father ... not enough clues though, so we have to wait for the next book.
I honestly wish to see Stephen to have more allies while navigating this "new world" for him - although this tentative relationship with his half-sister Bridget (her real name is Isadora but in his head, Stephen calls her Bridget, and she likes it enough for him to continue calling her that) sounds intriguing - as well as with Calhoun (the current Ashford's heir). But yes, I don't want to keep seeing Stephen being the lone-wolf type of hero in his young age.
It ends with Stephen getting a coded letter from his father ... not enough clues though, so we have to wait for the next book.
I honestly wish to see Stephen to have more allies while navigating this "new world" for him - although this tentative relationship with his half-sister Bridget (her real name is Isadora but in his head, Stephen calls her Bridget, and she likes it enough for him to continue calling her that) sounds intriguing - as well as with Calhoun (the current Ashford's heir). But yes, I don't want to keep seeing Stephen being the lone-wolf type of hero in his young age.
September 12, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for providing an ARC, all opinions are my own.
I loved Stephen’s slow progress to gaining more power and being able to fight back against his enemies and being able to see more of the chessboard in this world now. In book 1, he was unable to gain an advantage because this was world was an unknown to him, in book 2, we see him becoming more confident and stronger- he learns to be more secure and he thinks more out of the box, finding solutions no one would expect of an individual that only recently gained more power.
I liked reading this book, I do wish there were more scenes with the Ashford family, Ivy, the priest, and the winged. They are the more interesting aspect to this story, Stephen’s interactions with these characters is always interesting. More of the Ashford family, for more political dialogue, with the priest as a mentor figure, Ivy as a potential partner, and learning more about the winged- for Stephen to deeply understand the world more.
Again, I thought book 1 was a perfect length, due to it being an introduction to the characters, world, and magic system- however I would have liked this book to be longer and with more action outside London.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, this was an easy read, it was continually entertaining, I would have liked more depth, but I can see the series potential to becoming exceptional, there’s all the ingredients, it just needs a special twist. I loved the cliffhanger, and I am excited to read the third book. We finally are able to move forward and take action for an issue that has been taking over Stephen’s life. This could definitely make the series a five star contender!
I loved Stephen’s slow progress to gaining more power and being able to fight back against his enemies and being able to see more of the chessboard in this world now. In book 1, he was unable to gain an advantage because this was world was an unknown to him, in book 2, we see him becoming more confident and stronger- he learns to be more secure and he thinks more out of the box, finding solutions no one would expect of an individual that only recently gained more power.
I liked reading this book, I do wish there were more scenes with the Ashford family, Ivy, the priest, and the winged. They are the more interesting aspect to this story, Stephen’s interactions with these characters is always interesting. More of the Ashford family, for more political dialogue, with the priest as a mentor figure, Ivy as a potential partner, and learning more about the winged- for Stephen to deeply understand the world more.
Again, I thought book 1 was a perfect length, due to it being an introduction to the characters, world, and magic system- however I would have liked this book to be longer and with more action outside London.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, this was an easy read, it was continually entertaining, I would have liked more depth, but I can see the series potential to becoming exceptional, there’s all the ingredients, it just needs a special twist. I loved the cliffhanger, and I am excited to read the third book. We finally are able to move forward and take action for an issue that has been taking over Stephen’s life. This could definitely make the series a five star contender!
May 2, 2025
Benedict Jacka's world-building is a mastercraft. This book starts where the first one left off. Stephen is still scrambling for money, his estranged family is "complicated" and his friends are giving him grief.
Stephen is advancing in his craft, but not so much progress in his hunt for his father. More people seem out to get him.
Stephen is advancing in his craft, but not so much progress in his hunt for his father. More people seem out to get him.
January 22, 2025
A very impressive second instalment to this series amazing magic, adventure and family intrigue with some sharp commentary about young people trying to work in the tough 2020s job environment
Full review -
Full review -
January 14, 2025
Rounded up from 3.5 stars.
January 8, 2025
For the most part, I enjoyed the second book in this series.
We pick up right where we left off last time—with Stephen trying to navigate the—rather expensive—world of magic in spite of his own meager circumstances.
He utilizes his wit, ingenuity, and overall resourcefulness to circumvent or overcome challenges as they arise. The wealthy elite of the magical sphere don’t much appreciate Stephen’s capability nor his determination. Shocking. Subsequently, they try to impede Stephen and/or otherwise inconvenience him at every turn.
Stephen’s main focus in this book is to find some clues that may elucidate his father’s disappearance. This quest paired with the aforementioned “ruffled feathers� of the magical elite lead to quite a bit of trouble for Stephen.
So, yeah. I like this story so far.
Honestly, I think you’d really have to try to make a character with Stephen’s story unlikable or unsympathetic. Stephen’s plight is probably more familiar than not to most readers. Who in this world today doesn’t feel the crushing repercussions of unfettered capitalism and neoliberalism upon them?
That said, I’m not exactly sure what this story is arguing in favor of? It has commentary throughout criticizing different aspects of capitalism—most notably, this story comes down hard on the gross accumulation of wealth and resources (like magic) by the elite few and how the market does nothing to curtail that hoarding in practice. Rather, the market serves only to uphold the status quo. I think identifying that unequal system is the story’s strongest point.
But, this story also doesn’t seem to be making an argument for any systemic changes?
The whole focus of this series so far has been on Stephen “pulling himself up by his bootstraps� and finding individual solutions or workarounds for these problems. Which, is a very—let’s say—“conservative� approach to these issues. Were Stephen not a cis, white dude, I don’t even think the individual approach would be an option.
All this is to say that this story has all the parts to be a compelling and intersectional critique on current affairs in wealthy western nations—but, the pieces just aren’t coming together or lining up exactly.
Anyway.
We’ll see what happens next. I’m willing to continue on with this series~
We pick up right where we left off last time—with Stephen trying to navigate the—rather expensive—world of magic in spite of his own meager circumstances.
He utilizes his wit, ingenuity, and overall resourcefulness to circumvent or overcome challenges as they arise. The wealthy elite of the magical sphere don’t much appreciate Stephen’s capability nor his determination. Shocking. Subsequently, they try to impede Stephen and/or otherwise inconvenience him at every turn.
Stephen’s main focus in this book is to find some clues that may elucidate his father’s disappearance. This quest paired with the aforementioned “ruffled feathers� of the magical elite lead to quite a bit of trouble for Stephen.
So, yeah. I like this story so far.
Honestly, I think you’d really have to try to make a character with Stephen’s story unlikable or unsympathetic. Stephen’s plight is probably more familiar than not to most readers. Who in this world today doesn’t feel the crushing repercussions of unfettered capitalism and neoliberalism upon them?
That said, I’m not exactly sure what this story is arguing in favor of? It has commentary throughout criticizing different aspects of capitalism—most notably, this story comes down hard on the gross accumulation of wealth and resources (like magic) by the elite few and how the market does nothing to curtail that hoarding in practice. Rather, the market serves only to uphold the status quo. I think identifying that unequal system is the story’s strongest point.
But, this story also doesn’t seem to be making an argument for any systemic changes?
The whole focus of this series so far has been on Stephen “pulling himself up by his bootstraps� and finding individual solutions or workarounds for these problems. Which, is a very—let’s say—“conservative� approach to these issues. Were Stephen not a cis, white dude, I don’t even think the individual approach would be an option.
All this is to say that this story has all the parts to be a compelling and intersectional critique on current affairs in wealthy western nations—but, the pieces just aren’t coming together or lining up exactly.
Anyway.
We’ll see what happens next. I’m willing to continue on with this series~
December 3, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC
This was an excellent continuation of the first book that threaded the needle nicely between continuing the world building required for a rich story environment and providing consequential action and character growth.
Stephen is beginning to operate more comfortably within the new world he finds himself while still being underpowered and vulnerable to many of the foes he faces. His continued growth and the expansion of his skills, arsenal, and knowledge form important parts of this book, and his creative problem solving leads to several satisfying mini-resolutions.
Several peripheral characters from the first book are given more page-time, and this helps with the world-building as explanations are well crafted and never come across as exposition dumps.
It is an enjoyable follow-up to book one that grows both character and world. The only issue I had with it is that I now have to wait until 2025 for the resolution to THAT ending
This was an excellent continuation of the first book that threaded the needle nicely between continuing the world building required for a rich story environment and providing consequential action and character growth.
Stephen is beginning to operate more comfortably within the new world he finds himself while still being underpowered and vulnerable to many of the foes he faces. His continued growth and the expansion of his skills, arsenal, and knowledge form important parts of this book, and his creative problem solving leads to several satisfying mini-resolutions.
Several peripheral characters from the first book are given more page-time, and this helps with the world-building as explanations are well crafted and never come across as exposition dumps.
It is an enjoyable follow-up to book one that grows both character and world. The only issue I had with it is that I now have to wait until 2025 for the resolution to THAT ending
October 18, 2024
An Instruction in Shadow by Benedict Jacka is the second book in the "Inheritance of Magic" series. In this one, Stephen, after finally meeting his mother, is still trying to find his missing father. He is also trying to learn his place in his estranged family. All this while dealing with making a living and keeping himself and his cat, Hobbs, safe from characters who seem to have an agenda of their own concerning him. At the same time, he is trying to learn as much as possible about Drucraft, both to protect himself and to become more powerful.
This book is a great second addition to this series.
This book is a great second addition to this series.
February 10, 2025
"An Instruction in Shadow," the 2nd audiobook in Benedict Jacka's Inheritance of Magic series, published in 2024 and narrated by Will Watt, builds on the foundation laid by its predecessor, deepening the world of drucraft and Stephen Oakwood's journey. This urban fantasy installment, set in a gritty, magic-infused London, delivers a compelling mix of action, intrigue, and character growth, with Watt's narration enhancing the experience. While it doesn't resolve all its threads, it sets the stage for an exciting continuation, making it a worthy listen for fans of the genre.
Stephen Oakwood, now more entrenched in the magical world after surviving his aristocratic family's schemes, is driven by a personal mission: to find his missing father. This quest forms the emotional core of the story, as Stephen navigates a web of alliances and enemies, from the corporation he works for to the mother he's reconnecting with. Jacka's portrayal of Stephen remains relatable� he's still an underdog, but his growth is evident as he learns to wield drucraft more effectively and negotiate the political minefield of magical society. The introduction of the Winged, a mysterious group led by the enigmatic Byron, adds a layer of tension, as their promises to help Stephen come with strings attached. Jacka's pacing keeps the stakes high, with Stephen's encounters ranging from magical duels to tense negotiations, all while he grapples with trust and betrayal.
The drucraft system continues to shine, with Jacka expanding on its mechanics and societal implications. The audiobook delves into motion sigls and other advanced techniques, which Stephen must master to survive. While the detailed explanations can occasionally slow the narrative, they enrich the world-building, emphasizing how magic is a privilege of the wealthy � a theme that resonates with real-world inequalities. Hobbes, Stephen's cat, remains a delightful presence, though some listeners might wish for more of his involvement after his role in the first book. The audiobook also explores Stephen's evolving relationships, particularly with his mother and new allies, adding emotional depth to his journey.
Will Watt's narration is, once again, a highlight. His voice has become synonymous with Stephen, capturing his mix of determination and vulnerability. Watt's ability to differentiate characters, especially during heated exchanges, keeps the dialogue engaging. His pacing during action sequences is spot-on, making the listener feel the urgency of Stephen's predicaments. The audiobook's length, just under 10 hours, feels well-balanced, though the cliffhanger ending might leave some eager for resolution.
Stephen Oakwood, now more entrenched in the magical world after surviving his aristocratic family's schemes, is driven by a personal mission: to find his missing father. This quest forms the emotional core of the story, as Stephen navigates a web of alliances and enemies, from the corporation he works for to the mother he's reconnecting with. Jacka's portrayal of Stephen remains relatable� he's still an underdog, but his growth is evident as he learns to wield drucraft more effectively and negotiate the political minefield of magical society. The introduction of the Winged, a mysterious group led by the enigmatic Byron, adds a layer of tension, as their promises to help Stephen come with strings attached. Jacka's pacing keeps the stakes high, with Stephen's encounters ranging from magical duels to tense negotiations, all while he grapples with trust and betrayal.
The drucraft system continues to shine, with Jacka expanding on its mechanics and societal implications. The audiobook delves into motion sigls and other advanced techniques, which Stephen must master to survive. While the detailed explanations can occasionally slow the narrative, they enrich the world-building, emphasizing how magic is a privilege of the wealthy � a theme that resonates with real-world inequalities. Hobbes, Stephen's cat, remains a delightful presence, though some listeners might wish for more of his involvement after his role in the first book. The audiobook also explores Stephen's evolving relationships, particularly with his mother and new allies, adding emotional depth to his journey.
Will Watt's narration is, once again, a highlight. His voice has become synonymous with Stephen, capturing his mix of determination and vulnerability. Watt's ability to differentiate characters, especially during heated exchanges, keeps the dialogue engaging. His pacing during action sequences is spot-on, making the listener feel the urgency of Stephen's predicaments. The audiobook's length, just under 10 hours, feels well-balanced, though the cliffhanger ending might leave some eager for resolution.
December 11, 2024
An Instruction in Shadow by Benedict Jacka is the second book in the series, and it's a real page-turner.
The story follows Stephen on his quest to uncover the truth about his parents. The world-building in this series is fantastic, and it's easy to get immersed in the universe Jacka has created.
One of the best aspects of this book is the character development. Stephen has grown so much since the first book, and it's fascinating to see him navigate his newfound family dynamics. As expected, he is on somewhat awkward terms with his "rich noble" family. In the previous book, we were left with the mystery of his parents' disappearance. Now, in this book, one part of that mystery is unraveled.
"𝑾𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒂 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒆𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒐𝒏𝒆, 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒃𝒖𝒊𝒍𝒅 𝒊𝒕 𝒖𝒑. 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒓𝒆𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒔𝒆 𝒊𝒕 𝒊𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒅, 𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒏 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒇𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒔𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒊𝒕'𝒔 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒚 𝒐𝒖𝒕. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒕 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒔, 𝒊𝒕 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒎𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒚𝒐𝒖'𝒗𝒆 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒅. 𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆, 𝒚𝒐𝒖'𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒂𝒚, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏'𝒔 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒂𝒚. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒐 𝒊𝒕 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒈𝒐𝒆𝒔 𝒊𝒏 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒅𝒊𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏'𝒕 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕."
This revelation is a bit cruel, but I suspect there’s something even more suspicious going on. Hopefully, the third book will address this question.
The supporting characters are also well-developed, each with their own unique personalities and motivations, especially Byron and Father Hawke. If you haven't picked up this series yet, don’t miss out on the mysteries this book has to offer!
The third book will be released in 2025. Last time, I was convinced that the second book would be much better than the first one, and my guess was 💯 correct. Now, I'm convinced that the third book will be absolutely fabulous.
The story follows Stephen on his quest to uncover the truth about his parents. The world-building in this series is fantastic, and it's easy to get immersed in the universe Jacka has created.
One of the best aspects of this book is the character development. Stephen has grown so much since the first book, and it's fascinating to see him navigate his newfound family dynamics. As expected, he is on somewhat awkward terms with his "rich noble" family. In the previous book, we were left with the mystery of his parents' disappearance. Now, in this book, one part of that mystery is unraveled.
"𝑾𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒂 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒆𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒐𝒏𝒆, 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒃𝒖𝒊𝒍𝒅 𝒊𝒕 𝒖𝒑. 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒓𝒆𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒔𝒆 𝒊𝒕 𝒊𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒅, 𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒏 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒇𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒔𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒊𝒕'𝒔 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒚 𝒐𝒖𝒕. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒕 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒔, 𝒊𝒕 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒎𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒚𝒐𝒖'𝒗𝒆 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒅. 𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆, 𝒚𝒐𝒖'𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒂𝒚, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏'𝒔 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒂𝒚. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒐 𝒊𝒕 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒈𝒐𝒆𝒔 𝒊𝒏 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒅𝒊𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏'𝒕 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕."
This revelation is a bit cruel, but I suspect there’s something even more suspicious going on. Hopefully, the third book will address this question.
The supporting characters are also well-developed, each with their own unique personalities and motivations, especially Byron and Father Hawke. If you haven't picked up this series yet, don’t miss out on the mysteries this book has to offer!
The third book will be released in 2025. Last time, I was convinced that the second book would be much better than the first one, and my guess was 💯 correct. Now, I'm convinced that the third book will be absolutely fabulous.
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