Worldwalker by Andrew Christian is book two in the fantasy series of the same name, preceded by book one, Magelord. The Mason family has prospered historically through accessing other worlds' technology, and in book one, Devon Mason undergoes the Examination to harness the Veils of Chaos under Magelord Alexander Mason's guidance. He does learn to summon the Veils, but it makes Devon a target, so Magelord Alexander sends him to Earth for training, but dangers persist. Danger also arises now, when an oblivious young Alexander Mason discovers his lineage and the Veils of Chaos, embarking on a multi-world-saving mission. Despite skepticism, Alexander journeys across Anion, being doggedly chased and working through individuals like a combatant Overlord, a spectral guardian, Maximillias the Mighty, a healer, the wishy-washy Jak, and four genuine Magelords, who he strikes a deal with to save his companion, Dariani.

In Worldwalker by Andrew Christian, Alexander's journey happens quickly, but the progression of his arc is comfortably paced and we watch him go from former Boy Scout to someone who can conjure up a forest of sharpened stakes and fighter jets to combat wolves. Christian paints a rich and immersive picture of diverse fantasy realms in his worldbuilding; notable to my city slicker roots is the bustling Sephyria with its towering skyscrapers and advanced technology, brought to life with prose like, "Hard pavement greeted my custom boots. An assault on my nostrils: moldy cheese, roasting meat, metallic oil, a hint of hashish, a whiff of noxious fumes.” Having Jak along fills the void of Dariani nicely and when the spiritually dangerous trade with the Magelords is trumped by a Timeweaver, we witness the lengths Alexander is willing to go for love. The ending is satisfying, and while there is no cliffhanger it does promise further books on the Mason line. Very highly recommended.

The Worldwalker series by Andrew Christian begins with Devon Mason, a mage for hire, when his greatfather, Magelord Alexander Mason, violently attacks him. Alexander has ruled Northridge for eighty years with his powerful offworld magi. Devon, previously detached from political matters, unexpectedly gains offworld power, relying on his magic and the support of two women to survive. In this second installment, Worldwalker, Alexander, a studious youth, encounters Emilon, who reveals his destiny to control the Veils of Chaos. Transported to Anion, Alexander faces trials to retrieve stabilizers. Alongside Dari, Alexander is pressed to the limits in a series of battles. When Dari vanishes, he negotiates her possible rescue with the magelords in exchange for interworld knowledge, and a blood bond with the demon, knowing that the most difficult and dangerous challenges now lie ahead.

I went into book two, Worldwalker by Andrew Christian, without having read book one and found that the story reads perfectly well as a standalone. That said, I can definitely see how understanding the history of Alexander's bloodline and the Veils of Chaos would strengthen the experience. Still, Christian does an exceptional job of making this wholly about Alexander, as well as thoroughly fleshing out ancillary characters, both good, bad, and uncomfortably neutral. Dari is a standout, but for me, it was the four magelords, Isadore, Kitara, Logar, and Aberdeen, that, when we finally get them in a room together with Alexander, almost feels like the moment the pieces really click together. The worldbuilding is on point and the social structure and paranormal elements complement the quest, as opposed to the other way around, which is a testament to Christian's writing skill. Overall, this is an excellent book and I look forward to following the series as it continues.