A review by owlsreads
Ghostsmith by Nicki Pau Preto

adventurous dark tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Don't you just love when sequels do not disappoint? :D

Ghostsmith was pretty much everything I had expected it to be! And I had very high expectations for this book after Bonesmith. It was a pleasure to be back into this world with its rich details and complex (and spooky!) world-building that continued to develop and expand.

Nicki Pau Preto created not only a fascinating world here, but also such interesting characters. I still very much enjoyed Wren's perspective and was thoroughly engrossed in Julian, Leo, and Inara's voices. There was so much to learn through their eyes and it was great that each passing chapter helped further the plot.

And speaking of plot! The first half of the story was a little slower than I'd like. The second half amped up the tension and danger and stakes, however, and I found myself drawn to it and unable to put the book down. There were some incredibly satisfying twists and turns and I loved that we got to see so much of the aftermath after the main characters reached and accomplished their goals.

My one complaint was that the Corpse Queen subplot was too neatly wrapped up. It was a bit underwhelming considering all of the build up and tension surrounding her arc. I wish it had more of a... bang? 

Even so! Amazing duology that I recommend to anyone who enjoys stories about ghosts with complex and refreshing world-building and lots of family betrayal :D