Brighter Than Nine

This duology closer is full on cyber-punky fantasy, continuing to blend a modern setting with classic mythological elements such as the red string of fate and feuding deities. Picking up nearly two months after the first book, the main cast are facing battles old and new. While Rui navigates senior year at the academy and lost friends, Yiran grapples with his absent powers, and Zizi faces his past and hidden enemies in the depths of prison, and it’s up to all of them together to stop the hybrid threat once and for all.

There’s lots of mystery, investigating, and drama, as well as current pop references that range from memes (would you love me if I were a worm?) to kpop inspirations (the author’s note specifically mentions KPDH easter eggs). Every detail feels both important and fun, and the action is ripe for a tv adaptation (reapers and hunters, yay). We also get to see more of Ash, who joins the rotation of POV characters.

As a language first reader, I wasn’t entirely swept up in the writing, but those who favor direct action will enjoy the easy readability and the story that feels like it is plucked straight from the movie screen.

Pick up this teen fantasy adventure for drama, self-discovery, people discovering their own stregnth, and love that spans lifetimes.

Content corner: handful of swears