I got the book for free at New York Comic Con, so I went into it completely blind. I didn't even realize it was the second book in a series until a couple pages in. Though there were some parts that confused me because of it (like Nathan somehow being able to attend an all-girls school), I was able to follow along well enough. I really enjoyed Ava's journey and her blossoming romance with Raven, as well as all it entailed.

I wish the world was fleshed out a bit more. Even though it was over 400 pages, there was still some things that were briefly touched upon (such as racism, prejudices, and misconceptions) that really should have been addressed, especially for a book that takes place in the early 1900s. There were several major revelations that went by way too fast, with almost no negative consequences that you would expect from the time period. There was also what seemed to be an important dinner that was brought up in the book and then never mentioned again which seemed odd, given how much time the book spent on everything else that occurred in that specific scene. However, the copy I received was an advanced reader's copy, it's entirely possible this was already addressed as the book was edited.

I liked it enough that I will give the first book a chance, and pick up the final copy of this book when it comes out. ( )

I loved Blythewood, and cannot explain my reluctance to pick up book 2 -- once I did, of course, I was swept away again immediately. Not in quite the same way, though -- this one is all motion and romantic angst -- something I'm willing to put up with for the time being. There are a lot of weird plot holes, there was a point in which I went back to read a couple of previous chapters because it was so unclear whether Ava had revealed her nature or not. It's just a bit sloppy and convoluted, but enjoyable for all that. ( )

So I had this grand plan. To finish this series. The problem was, I didn't really like the first book all that well in the first place. I struggle to finish it and that just leaves me doing everything else other than reading. I'm always so afraid I'm missing out if I don't read it.

Last night I had a revelation. I was done forcing myself to read books that I can't get into. This has eliminated this series and one other. It's actually such a relief to realize I don't have to read it. I didn't realize how much I was dreading it till I decided I wasn't going to do it.

"I felt, for the moment at least, that I was home. Not because I was returning to Blythewood, but because I was sitting beside a friend--and really, what other sort of home was there?"

A charming followup to Blythewood. Ravencliffe takes us beyond the protected realm of Ava's boarding school refuge and into a world that's a little bit darker. We're granted more diverse characters and stronger, sassier developments for some of the usual suspects (Helen kills it in this installment). Drood is up to his usual evil antics, but there's also a suggestion of that flicker of light he may still possess.

The magic folk, however, are the real stars of this show. I love the glimpses into the Darkling way of life, the diversity of the carnival crowd, and Etta's quiet but powerful role as a bridge between long divided factions. And Ava, of course, has her chance to shine and come fully to terms with her new identity. Ravencliffe felt fuller in regards to world expansion and character depth. Goodman's portrayal of Coney Island, the sinking of the Titanic, construction of the Woolworths building, and similar historical elements were perfectly executed and offered both story credibility and depth. A delightful read. ( )

I had mixed feelings about the first one (I liked it, thought it was too long, but the ending was enough of a Good Time that it made me forget it), and I liked this one a bit better (unusual for the 2nd book in a series). Good fun! ( )