Directly continuing the story from Forging Silver into Stars,  Carving Shadows into Gold was an incredible read. I absolutely adored the first book and wasn’t disappointed by the second installment in the series. The narrative continues to follow the intertwined lives of Tycho, Jax, and Callyn as they navigate a kingdom fraught with dangerous magic, political intrigue, and personal challenges.

Tycho, now the King's Courier, finds himself bound by a perilous bargain to Nakiis, a magical scraver. His journey is one of self-discovery, as he grapples with past traumas and the unpredictable nature of his own magic. Jax, having left his former life in Briarlock, faces unexpected challenges and adversaries in Emberfall, pushing him to confront his past and redefine his identity. Callyn, previously a critic of the royal family and their magic, now stands beside the Queen, grappling with newfound powers and the complexities of court life. Her internal struggle revolves around trust, especially concerning Alek, a man she once loved but now views with suspicion.

I thoroughly enjoyed how the story delves deeply into questions of loyalty and trust, and how these bonds are tested in the face of fear and uncertainty. Brigid Kemmerer balances beautifully action-driven plotlines with introspective character development. I loved the evolution of the characters, which were not only compelling but sometimes unexpected. Carving Shadows into Gold was a fantastic read, and I cannot wait for Book 3!