Thrilling second installment of Earthcore series

Volcano City by Grace Bridges is the thrilling second installment of the captivating Earthcore series. The narrative picks up Anira's journey and takes a gripping turn as she returns to Auckland, where the stakes are higher than ever. She has lost the supernatural abilities she gained in Rotovegas: Earthccore Book 1 after leaving the magical thermal springs of Rotorua, For this story, she faces the challenge of regaining not only her powers but also her memories of the events and friendships that defined her summer.

 

About the book: Volcano City

The story kicks off with a powerful sense of disorientation as Anira struggles to reconnect with her Earthcore team—Tiger, Graeme, and Bethany—each grappling with insecurities and challenges in the urban landscape. The author skillfully develops these characters, making their individual journeys as compelling as Anira’s, and the tension of their reunion adds depth to the narrative.

The antagonist—a maniac wielding mind control—serves as a formidable threat, his motivations steeped in revenge and a desire for chaos. His arrival in Auckland sets off a chain of events that leads to brilliantly orchestrated mayhem, with the earth itself becoming restless and heightening the urgency of Anira’s quest. As the city faces the threat of disaster, readers are drawn into a whirlwind of action and suspense.

BookHookup Review: Volcano City

The pacing is relentless, with thrilling sequences that blend urban adventure and mythical elements. Anira’s struggle to remember her gifts and summon the ancient taniwha adds an exciting layer of folklore to the plot, enriching the story's setting and stakes.

Volcano City not only builds on the excitement of the first book but also deepens character dynamics and expands the world. Anira’s journey of self-discovery, courage, and teamwork resonates, making this a must-read for fans of YA fantasy. With its mix of heart-pounding action, brilliantly orchestrated mayhem, and compelling friendships, this installment deserves a solid 5 stars and leaves this reader eagerly anticipating Anira’s next adventure.

Uniquely original immersive experience

From the very first page, Earthcore Book 1: Rotovegas by Grace Bridges thrusts readers into the vibrant world of Rotorua, New Zealand, a setting as crucial to the story as the characters themselves. The geothermal springs of Mokoia Island are not merely a backdrop but a character in their own right, brimming with ancient power and mystery. The author’s depiction of the cultural and natural beauty of the region breathes authenticity into the narrative, making Rotorua a living, breathing entity.

 

About the book: Earthcore - Rotovegas

Anira, the protagonist, is a marvel of character development. Her transformation from a reluctant teen vacationer with a fear of volcanoes into a formidable hero is both believable and inspiring. The cognitive powers she acquires from the hot springs not only add an intriguing layer to her character but also set the stage for a gripping story filled with energy, suspense, and emotion. Anira’s struggle to control her newfound abilities and understand their origin is portrayed with depth and sensitivity, making her journey relatable and compelling.

The supporting characters also have unique abilities that add a delightful layer of complexity and camaraderie that generates tension and growth, from the heart of the story. This ragtag team’s evolution from distrustful individuals to a united force is a testament to the author’s skill in creating believable teenage characters as they face challenges with bravery and resilience.

As the climax builds to a thrilling crescendo, the stakes are high, and the resolution is both satisfying and hopeful. The book concludes with a sense of accomplishment and unity, leaving readers eager for more.

5 out of 5 stars

BookHooup Review of Earthcore: Rotovegas

The intricately woven plot is peppered with clever clues and unexpected twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The blend of action and adventure, combined with fantastical Maori beings and cultural lore, elevates the story to a truly immersive experience.

Earthcore is a uniquely original and imaginative tale that skillfully combines action, fantasy, and cultural richness. It celebrates diversity, teamwork, and the magic hidden in the natural world. With its rich cultural tapestry and inventive storytelling this book is a must-read for fans of dynamic characters and reluctant heroes.

I'm looking forward to reading the series.

About the author: Grace Bridges

Grace Bridges has been in love with language and art, and the art of language, for her entire life. She’s a semi-professional cat herder and also translates German and French. Indie publishing and freelance editing have been her focus for the past ten years, including 40+ titles in her Splashdown Books brand. She has written several novels in space opera, Irish cyberpunk, and in 2017 the EARTHCORE science mythology YA series set in New Zealand. Her short stories and non-fiction appear in many anthologies and online magazines. Grace loves to show people that it’s easy to make books—but also insists on top quality writing and design. She has served five years on the committee of New Zealand writers' group SpecFicNZ and is its current president. See www.gracebridges.kiwi for information on her art, fiction and non-fiction, editing work, and more.

* * *

As BookHookup I received a free review copy of this book from the author but was not compensated for reviewing or recommending it. Some links in this post are affiliate links. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to amazon.com and affiliate sites.