Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Tempest of the Rogue is a work of fiction in the fantasy, sword and sorcery sub-genres and was penned by author Giselle Jeffries Schneider. Written for young adult audiences, this novel forms the second book in The Rogue Beyond the Wall Series. Picking up the action where the first novel left off, this epic-length tale dives back in to find Nicholas undergoing a healing process, one which he hopes will lead him back to the right path. Meanwhile, his father, Isaiah, embarks upon a journey to meet with mystical elven folk but gets way more than he bargained for. What results is an epic reunion of father and son as the fate of the wider world looms above them.
One of the things I most admired about this novel was the way in which the author builds and shapes the world without detracting from the characters. Atmospheric touches, descriptive language, and backstory are molded seamlessly into the conversations and scenes that unfold, which helped me to catch up on the events from the previous book whilst also moving ahead with this complex and engaging plot. Author Giselle Jeffries Schneider has certainly crafted an epic for serious fantasy enthusiasts, but the book reads with a flighty pace that will keep YA readers engaged throughout, and Nicholas is an especially endearing young hero that readers are sure to root for. Overall, I would highly recommend Tempest of the Rogue for fans of the existing series and new readers seeking a deep and well-constructed fantasy world to get lost in.