Black Ruins Rise

Blue Shadows Book #2

Young Adult - Paranormal
352 Pages
Reviewed on 10/15/2024
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    Book Review

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Black Ruins Rise is a work of fiction in the paranormal, adventure, and interpersonal drama genres, and is the second book in the Blue Shadows Trilogy. The book is intended for young adult readers and was penned by author Lenore Stutznegger. Blue Haven sets out to rescue her twin from a murderous prince, relying on the sight of a Shadow Elfling, accompanied by an enemy. Meanwhile, Kaleo Bannon battles the transformation caused by a Shadow Elf’s bite as he strives to save Blue, the girl he loves. Mason, determined to claim what he believes is his, drags Blue across an apocalyptic wasteland. As Blue and Kaleo venture deeper into the wild, they must confront their evolving powers and humanity to save their village.

Author Lenore Stutznegger has crafted a thrilling and immersive story that continues the Blue Shadows Trilogy with high stakes and intense emotions, keeping a wonderful pace and level of intrigue for this second novel. Blue Haven's determination and bravery in the face of overwhelming odds were both inspiring and heart-wrenching, and the character was realized with a great level of detail and a close, emotive narrative viewpoint. The dynamic between Blue and her enemy-turned-ally was brilliantly penned with fantastic dialogue that kept their conflicting energies fresh and entertaining, while Kaleo's struggle to maintain his humanity amidst his transformation furthers the suspense. The vivid descriptions of the apocalyptic wasteland and the constant threat of danger heightened the sense of urgency throughout, and these vistas offered atmospheric touches that perfectly matched the emotional mood of each scene. Stutznegger's skillful blending of fantasy elements with deep character development made the story compelling and emotionally resonant with realistic and satisfying plot twists that never felt gimmicky. Overall, Black Ruins Rise is a captivating tale of love, sacrifice, and the battle between human and otherworldly forces, leaving me eagerly anticipating the next installment.