A Torch Against the Night

This definitely felt like a second book, there was lots of traveling, things being revealed, getting past issues and relationships being stretched and strained.

I loved many parts of this book but felt so utterly devastated and heartbroken at so many times, there was just so few positive moments it was hard to really enjoy it.

That said I was still totally engrossed the entire time and can't wait to get to the next book.

A Torch Against the Night was a delightful sequel. Sometimes, a sequel can be disappointing but I found this one to be much more interesting because we start to learn more about the magic in their world, as well as a glimpse of the Tribal culture Elias grew up in. We also get Helene's perspective, someone who is wrought with internal conflict just as Elias is, if not for a different reason: her love for Elias and for her family. Everyone is under the threat of the sadistic new Emperor Marcus and his right hand, Keris, Elias' mother. There's a lot going on but it never detracts from each other or confuses New plots unfold and sinister characters are introduced, all the while Laia and Elias' journey brings them closer and closer even as they try to resist it. Action, magic, a teeny bit of romance, and mystery, A Torch Against the Night is a wonderful follow-up that satisfies, but also leaves you with a quiet sensation of wanting more! Can't wait for the next one!

This triumphs just like the first book. It avoids the dreaded second book syndrome, maintaining the same intensity, high stakes, and emotional depth that made the first installment so incredible. The world expands in exciting ways, diving deeper into the politics, magic, and danger that loom over the characters. The pacing is flawless, with action, heartache, and twists that keep you on edge.

The character development really shines in this sequel. We see even more growth, especially with Laia and Elias, as they face impossible choices and personal struggles. Their journey feels raw and real, and the romance continues to build naturally without overtaking the story. Every relationship is layered with tension, trust, and betrayal, just like you'd expect from a romantasy this rich.

What stands out is how the book balances all its elements so well—nothing feels rushed or forced. It builds on the foundation of the first book, adding even more complexity to the world and characters. It's a perfect continuation and absolutely avoids the pitfalls that many sequels face.

4,5 ✨
“Most people are nothing but glimmers in the great darkness of time. But you are no swift-burning spark. You are a torch against the night-if you dare to let yourself burn”
I wasn't expecting all of that, I wasn't expecting to cry, I just need to finish the whole series and then be in a corner and cry T.T

Buku kedua Seri Ember. Obor yg menerangi malam itu ternyata Helene. Di buku kedua ini tokoh Helene diberi POV sdr. Helene ternyata tokoh yg menarik, entah kenapa aku lebih menyukai Helene disbanding Laia. Di buku 1 & 2 Laia banyak melakukan kesalahan & keputusan yg tidak tepat.
Menjadi pelarian, Laia & Darin berusaha menemukan jalan aman ke Kauf. Di luar dugaan, Elias diracun oleh komandan, ibunya sdr. Laia & Darin disusul oleh Keenan & Izzi. Rencana Elias bertemu Afya, kepala Tribe Nur untuk meminta bantuan.
Sementara itu dgn Marcus sebagai Kaisar Imperium terpilih, memerintahkan Helene sebagai Blood Shrike baru untuk memburu Elias.
Suka banget sama seri ini, jadi gk sabar baca kelanjutannya, padahal baru mei nanti terbit di negara asalnya.