A review by queer_bookwyrm
Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi

adventurous emotional sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

2025 reread: 
Again, I loved this book so much even a second time. There is so much grief in these pages, much like book one. I think the thing that these kinds of books tell us is that revolution is violent and messy. It's complicated, and right and wrong don't really fit there. I just want to wrap these characters up and make sure they get a happy ending. They have been through too much. I'm definitely glad I did this reread before going into Children of Anguish and Anarchy. 

Original review: 
Ugh this book was so good! If I thought the first book ripped me apart, it's nothing compared to this book. There was a lot of world building that happened, and we got explore more of the maji's powers. I found Zelie's continued reticence about being a leader very annoying until she finally got over it. I'm still annoyed with how weak and naive Inan is. Amari holds a special place in my heart, and her growth went in an unexpected direction. This sequel was so sad, I cried at least twice. There had better be another book, because that ending just won't do!