Dark Star Burning, Ash Falls White (Song of the Last Kingdom, #2) by Amélie Wen Zhao
on January 2, 2024
ISBN: 0593487540
Pages: 345
Genres: Fantasy
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads

“Dark Star Burning, Ash Falls White” is the sequel to “Song of Silver, Flame like Night” by Amélie Wen Zhao. A Young Adult/Teen fantasy duology, set in a world inspired by Chinese myths, Lan, our main character, has discovered that the mark on her arm means that her mother sealed her powerful connection to the Silver Dragon, a demon god. She is afraid to use the power because she knows that the dragon will take over her mind. Her companion, Zen, is fighting his connection to the demon Black Tortoise (who he bound himself to to get the power to avenge his family). Together they must fight to free the Last Kingdom.

The characters struggle with power and whether or not power should be embraced or destroyed. There is some romance and the two main characters are fully fleshed out and compelling. The world building that Zhao has done is impressive. A recommended purchase for YA collections where fantasy is popular (as long as you also get the first book).

Reviewed by Kate Radke, Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook, ME.