Defend the Dawn (Defy the Night)

The sequel to Defy the Night is an absolute triumph.
The story takes place several months after the throttled rebellion and attempted overthrow of the Crown. Frustrated with the pace of diplomacy and unable to establish credibility as an apothecary within the Royal Court, Tessa is struggling with her current circumstances. Overwhelmed and unimpressed with the politics of helping people, she longs for her days as an outlaw. Not only because outlaw Tessa was able to directly help the people but also because she had the help of her co-conspirator Wes. Her attempt to reconcile her love for Wes with the actions of the King’s Justice creates heart-wrenching tension throughout the story.

The unexpected arrival of an emissary from the neighboring country to the north ignites both hope and suspicion. While the Crown is reluctant to see the potential of this alliance, the ever-optimistic Tessa is undeterred by their cynicism and volunteers for the journey. A decision that will alter all their fates.

Superb writing, vivid imagery, and rich characters with an abundance of emotional depth. Book two did a sensational job of propelling the overall series and introducing unexpected challenges.