Had a few other stops and starts, but I can't use the Goodreads app on work wifi and I'd totally forgotten about that, ha. Also, I know this came out in January but as per my usual library habits I didn't get around to it until later, renewing it until we reached the point where libraries closed and we were instructed to hold on to material for the foreseeable near future... however, I feel like I should be ready to send them back whenever things open, so going through older stuff first, but also: happy AAPIHM 2020! I read the first of this duology for 2018's, so this feels fittingly bookend-ish.

Iron Will pops in to see how Genie's doing after becoming the spiritual guardian over California. During a long weekend trip with Yunie to visit a nearby college, evil threatens from a couple dimensions over and suddenly gods are vying to be the next leader of heaven. Not going to lie, I was reminded of other recent elections in which very qualified women don't receive as much fanfare as flashier bro types, but I digress... anyway, the theme is sacrifice and priorities, and while facing supernatural threats Genie also has the realization of "oh shit, it was easy to focus on doing well at school but NOW what??" decision paralysis re: what college to go to but then also plans after that. it's a very real feeling I remember aaaah!

There's easily more stories that could be told as midquels between the time jump at the end, but if not, I'm satisified with story end. ( )

A fun and dangerous journey with Genie Lo and her friends and enemies and loves, in a young adult novel. A battle between magical creatures and demons. I enjoyed it and don’t feel I was lost by not reading the first book, though I do feel I may have gotten more involved in the characters and the outcome if I had.

See more at http://www.fundinmental.com ( )