Stormsong

Dame Grace Hensley faces mounting challenges as she attempts to stabilize her nation of Aeland after the exposure of its dark magical practices. The country grapples with an energy crisis, ongoing war, and the arrival of powerful supernatural beings known as the Amaranthines who demand accountability for past crimes. Grace must navigate treacherous political waters while working with Avia Jessup, a determined reporter investigating the government's secrets. Their growing romantic connection complicates Grace's already precarious position as she tries to prevent both revolution and supernatural retribution. This second installment in The Kingston Cycle combines elements of gaslamp fantasy, political intrigue, and LGBTQ+ romance in a war-torn world. The story builds on the events of Witchmark while introducing new conflicts and characters. The novel explores themes of accountability, redemption, and the tension between personal desires and duty to one's nation. It raises questions about power, privilege, and the cost of maintaining social order.

Readers view Stormsong as a solid follow-up to Witchmark, though many feel it doesn't reach the same heights. Common praise focuses on: - The expansion of political worldbuilding - Grace's character development - The romance between Grace and Avia - Exploration of class privilege and power Main criticisms include: - Slower pacing than the first book - Less compelling romance compared to Witchmark - Plot resolution feels rushed in final chapters - Some found Grace harder to connect with than Miles One reader noted: "The political intrigue takes center stage over the romance, which may disappoint those expecting another love story like Witchmark." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (4,500+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (200+ ratings) LibraryThing: 3.8/5 (150+ ratings) Review quotes often highlight the book's focus on systemic change and accountability, with several readers praising how it handles themes of privilege and responsibility.

The Midnight Bargain by C. L. Polk A woman in a Regency-inspired world must choose between magic and marriage while navigating politics and romance.

The Magpie Lord by K.J. Charles A Victorian-era nobleman seeks help from a magician to break a family curse while sparks of attraction ignite between them.

Silver in the Wood by Emily Tesh The guardian of an ancient forest meets a folklore researcher, leading to revelations about magic, nature, and the past.

The Binding by Bridget Collins A bookbinder in an alternate Victorian society discovers the power to trap memories in books and uncovers secrets about his own past.

The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune A government case worker inspects an orphanage of magical children and finds unexpected connections in a world where magic meets bureaucracy.

🔹 C. L. Polk made their novel-writing debut with "Witchmark," the first book in The Kingston Cycle, which won the World Fantasy Award in 2019 🔹 The book's gaslamp fantasy setting combines elements of the Edwardian era with magical elements - a subgenre that emerged as an alternative to steampunk, focusing more on supernatural elements than technology 🔹 The character Grace Hensley first appeared as a supporting character in "Witchmark" before becoming the protagonist of "Stormsong," allowing readers to see her complex character development across the series 🔹 The Amaranthines in the story are immortal beings who represent accountability for historical injustices - a theme that parallels real-world discussions about colonial reparations and historical reconciliation 🔹 C. L. Polk drew inspiration for the series' magical weather control elements from their experiences growing up in Southern Alberta, Canada, where weather patterns can be particularly dramatic and unpredictable