Much of the mystery hinges on whether or not characters believe in one another, and the conclusion always is that friendship and compassion can be powerful tools. I also love the themes of friendship, trust, and loyalty that are explored in this. Townsend has found a perfect balance between sinister and whimsy that I adore.

However, there is still so much adventure, magic, and humor. With the disappearances of prominent figures in society, as well as the strange zombie-like figure Morrigan sees and the strange blackmail threats that start appearing, there is a more ominous tone to this story. While Nevermoor focused a lot on introducing us to Morrigan’s world, Wundersmith leans much farther toward mystery. And the new characters like Mildmay and the rest of Unit 919 are well-characterized and add new layers to the magical setting. Other characters such as Hawthorne, Jupiter, Fenestra, and Cadence are still fantastic. She’s still flawed, though, but likeable. Morrigan continues to grow, starting to accept herself and learn to make friends. This is an excellent sequel, accomplishing everything a sequel should. But with the ever-present threat of Ezra Squall’s return, Morrigan has to prove that she belongs in the Wundrous Society after all. However, most of the rest of her unit don’t trust her, and with mysterious disappearances putting all of Nevermoor on edge, it’s not the best time to have the powers Morrigan has. Wundersmith by Jessica Townsend picks up shortly after the first book ended, with Morrigan Crow on the cusp of starting her classes at the Wundrous Society.

Wundersmith series