Review: ARC of Phoenix by Elizabeth Richards

Goodreads Book Description: Weeks after his crucifixion and rebirth as Phoenix, Ash Fisher believes his troubles are far behind him. He and Natalie are engaged and life seems good. But his happiness is short-lived when he receives a threatening visit from Purian Rose, who gives Ash an ultimatum: vote in favor of Rose’s Law permanently relegating Darklings to the wrong side of the wall or Natalie will be killed.

The decision seems obvious to Ash; he must save Natalie. But when Ash learns about The Tenth, a new and deadly concentration camp where the Darklings would be sent, the choice doesn’t seem so simple. Unable to ignore his conscience, Ash votes against Rose’s Law, signing Natalie’s death warrant and putting a troubled nation back into the throes of bloody battle.

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

My Review: I was very lucky to receive one of these well anticipated ARCs from the author in exchange for an honest review.

I loved Black City, so I was thrilled to receive this follow up. In Phoenix, the sequel, we are thrust back into the action, right where we left off in Black City. Ash and Natalie are still in love, and still reeling from the events in the last book. Rose's Law is up for public vote, and unsurprisingly, we get some sinister threats from Purian Rose, the enemy. The basic idea that Ash and Natalie are fighting for is equality among all races, Darklings and humans alike (as well as some other interesting species mixed in). A lot of forces stand in their way.

I don't want to give away any more information, because there are several twists that are a delight to find out. Again, this entry is very well written, and I found myself immersed in this dangerous world that seems like a combination between the world of the Hunger Games and that of the Holocaust. Horrific things happen in the name of power, and while at times, it seems almost unbelievable, you just have to look at WWII to remember that such atrocities have happened in the recent past.

If I'm completely honest, I didn't like this entry as much as the first-- not because it's not as well written, but certain events had to happen, which make me not the biggest fan of Natalie by the end of the book. But I understand she has time to redeem herself, and another book to get there.

Overall, a thrilling and dark second installment in the Black City trilogy. It's a must read, and I'm itching to get my hands on the third as soon as possible.
  
Are you excited to get this book? You should be!