A couple of months ago, I received book one of the Water-Folk Saga, Jade and Tar, in return for an honest review. I greatly enjoyed this first novel by Victoria Ravenwood (my review), so I was glad I got the chance to read and review part two as well. Copper and Smoke did not disappoint!

Thanks again, Victoria!

Copper and Smoke

After surviving the events of book one, Cali and Dagwood try their best to make a life for themselves. Unfortunately, that is not as easy as it might sound, seeing that Cali’s scar frequently causes issues with the locals. When an old friend of Dagwood shows up, things start to gain momentum and adventure comes knocking on their door. But Dagwood doesn’t seem as enthusiastic about the arrival of Eamon as he should, and as his friend grows closer to Cali, Dagwood’s own relationship with her becomes increasingly strained.

Driven by curiosity and a hunger to learn more about who she is, Cali decides to investigate a mysterious book that might just hold the key to who she is. This takes them back to Montauciel, however, where she’s forced to face the hard truths of the past.

Adventure and romance

Aren’t those the two most important components of any good novel? And I’m glad to say, this book has plenty of both. I’m happy I finally got to catch up with Cali and her friends, I had been wondering what they would get up to in the next novel after finishing the first.

Like Jade and Tar, the writing is very fluent (like the sea 😉 ) and fast-paced, which is ideal for an adventure story. Furthermore, there are many dialogues, which contribute to the vibrant feel of the novel. The characters are likeable, funny, and are very well-rounded. Compared to the first book, there is definitely more romance in this second installment, which I didn’t mind one bit!

As I mentioned already in my review of book one, Victoria Ravenwood is a master worldbuilder. I would almost believe the places she mentions could be found in my atlas, that’s how real they seem. The setting is very different from the first book, though, as the world of the Academy has made place for adventures on islands and high seas. Pirates ahoy!

I also love the fact that there’s a summary of book one (I made my own, but this one was way better) and a glossary at the back of the book. That’s so useful…Can everyone start doing that, pretty please?

Once again, highly recommended! Four out of five gemstones:

Age Category: Young Adult

Do you want to discover more?

If my review inspired you to pick up the book, don’t hesitate to check it out at Goodreads or at the below online stores.

Amazon.nl: eBook edition

Amazon.nl: Paperback edition

Similar to this

You cannot wait to meet Cali again, you say? Well, you are in luck! Part three of the Water-Folk Saga, Silver and Snow has already been announced! In the meanwhile, why don’t you enjoy the book trailer for book two:

Edit: Silver and Snow has been released in the meanwhile! (my review)

While reading, I also got distinct Defy the Night vibes, the newest series by Brigid Kemmerer . This story is loosely inspired by the Robin Hood legends and tells the tale of two – very – unlikely allies in their fight for justice and freedom. My review of part one can be found here.

I was also reminded to a certain extend of Naiya’s Wish by Astrid V.J., a retelling of one of the lesser known fairytales. It tells the story of a water spirit with an impossible wish that accidently causes a totally out-of-control chain reaction. My review can be found here.

Furthermore, I would also recommend Witch of Ware Woods by Sonja F. Blanco. This debut novel is the first part of a YA fantasy series about a magical community in an enchanted forest. My review can be found here.