We Unleash the Merciless Storm

Carmen Santos cover as a La Voz soldier has been exposed. She flees back to the La Voz's headquarters, leaving behind Dani, the girl she loved. A lot has changed in the headquarters and not for the better. Carmen can't forget Dani. Carmen struggles with being the loyal La Voz soldier or leaving it all to be with the girl she loves.

What worked: This sequel to We Set The Dark on Fire is told in the point of view of Carmen Santos, the Segunda, second wife of Mateo, son of a powerful leader. Carmen is strong, passionate, and a kick-ass. One huge plus is how the author pulls back Carmen's powerful, tough veneer to show her vulnerabilities. In a world that values those to take an oath to be loyal to a cause, love can be the wedge that can destroy you.

There's lots of world-building here that shows a Latinx touch set on the island of Medio. The wall that divides the haves from the have nots is very reminiscent of what is going on in our nation right now. Those on the wrong side of the wall live in poverty and are viewed as subhuman by those in power.

Carmen's quest to get back to Dani takes her from the headquarters through many dangerous places and encounters. The strength of this novel is how Carmen's love pushes her onward despite the horrors around her. Loyalties are questioned.

I did feel that there were places the story dragged on. Most of the action comes midway through the novel. Also some of Carmen's internal thoughts were a tad bit repetitious at times. Later on the novel is fast-paced with more than a few twists and turns on the plot. Who is the real traitor to La Voz? Can Carmen trust her heart?

The romance is emotionally packed with sparks that literally ignite whenever Carmen is with Dani. I wanted more of this earlier in the novel.

Engaging continuation of We Set The Dark on Fire with a strong protagonist who sets out to not only be a soldier in the resistance, but to fight against all odds to be with the girl she loves.