Phoenix: A Black City Novel    by Elizabeth Richards Order:  USA  Can Putnam, 2013 (2013) Hardcover, e-Book    Reviewed by Jessica Maguire The second book of the Black City novels finds Darkling Ash reborn after his crucifixion (hence the nickname Phoenix), and engaged to his love, Natalie. But, of course, it won't be smooth sailing to the wedding for Ash and Natalie. Purian Rose, a particularly scary dictator, forces Ash to choose between the girl he loves and his people, the Darklings. If he votes in favor of Purian Roses's law, the Darklings will be sent to a concentration camp and exterminated. If Ash votes against the law, Purian Rose has made it very clear that Natalie will be killed. Adventure abounds from the ultimatum that Purian Rose has given Ash (or perhaps because of it). Joining Ash, Natalie, and their friends who are rebelling against Purian Rose is the Bastet, Elijah. Suspecting that Elijah has the hots for Natalie, Ash dislikes him, which complicates the rebels' dynamics, especially when Elijah reveals that he knows of a weapon the can destroy the dictator's powers for good. What will become of the Darklings? Will Elijah come between Ash and Natalie? The search for the weapon of which Elijah speaks will force the rebels to flee the Black City and perhaps tear Ash and Natalie apart. To find the answers to these questions, and much more, you'll have to read the novel for yourself! I have to admit that although it's a very entertaining read full of plot twists, triumph, and heartache, I just could not really get into this book. I do enjoy books like this that alternate the chapters from the point of view of different characters (the perspectives of Natalie and Ash in this novel) but I felt that I had just dropped into the story and had missed many of the events of the previous novel. That being said, readers new to the Black City novels may want to begin with the first installment of this series. Happy reading! Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Teens books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews