#libraryofthedead

I started this series last year. I found out about this book through a group chat with my girls. One of them had mentioned some scene that really stuck with her in a graphic way. I was immediately sold for some odd reason. I texted her back asking her the name of the book. She told me it was called The Library of the Dead. I realized that in my last post, I didn't mention that I also listen to audiobooks. The same friend who gave me the title, also introduced to me the world of audiobooks. It became my primary way of consuming books when I was limited on time. But anyhow, I went onto my Libby app (a local library app) and searched for the book. Luck was on my side and my library had it in their system. It was time to listen! The story takes place in Scotland where magic hides in its underbelly. Ropa Moyo is a ghostalker, like her grandmother. She takes up the responsibility of being the head of the household to provide for her grandmother and little sister. Ghostalking brings in the chow, but its still not enough to pay all the bills. When one of Ropa's ghost client reaches out to her, pleading desperately with Ropa to find her missing son. She soon realizes that weird things are underfoot and also out of her depth. Her best pal, Jomo, helps her by taking her to the Library of the Dead. Discovering a world of magic she never knew existed. Time is running out and it's up to Ropa to find the child before its too late.

I got swept away instantly! I was fascinated by the story and narrator. I enjoyed the way she read the book. The narrator gave depth and spunk to the character of Ropa. It was also fascinating to have a sneak peek at the Library of the Dead while learning about Ropa's abilities. It's a fun book! You can see my full review on goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53205876-the-library-of-the-dead

I thought it was a great introduction to a fun, new paranormal YA series. I was excited to see that this book had a continuation to the story: Our Lady of Mysterious Ailments.

This second book takes place right after the events of the last book. We follow Ropa Moyo, the protagonist, as she tries to find steady work after her Ghostalking job goes downhill. After discovering the Library of the Dead and her talent for magic, Ropa is determined to master her magic while providing for her family. But, things don't go according to plan. Ropa didn't grow up in this magical society and schooling. She has never had the proper training or resources to learn how to wield magic. That's when she is taken under the wing of Sir Callander, a highly regarded magician of the magical society. Sir Callander finds Ropa an opportunity as an intern at the General Discoveries Department. At the same time, another job opportunity arises, where a young man is stricken with a mysterious illness at Our Lady of Mysterious Ailments. While her internship may be a great opportunity to further her magical education, Ropa still needs to provide for her family. Her investigation skills come back to play. Ropa struggles to find balance between making money for her family and dedicating time to properly learn her magic. However, it doesn't stop her from trying to do it all, to the point that she makes reckless decisions along the way. All the while, uncovering hidden truths that are leading to a sinister plan that will affect all of Scotland and its magic.

4/5 stars

Again, I listened to the audiobook. However, the narrator changed. Even though she sounded similar to the previous one, I did find myself struggling to connect at first. Luckily, as the story began to build, I found myself engrossed like the first book. This time, we get to learn more about the Library of the Dead. We are introduced to new characters within the magical society. The books slowly becomes a sleuth story and I love when Ropa turns into an investigator. But what really drove home for me, was her dedication and determination to provide her little sister and grandmother with a better life. Ropa didn't grow up wealthy. She also grew up without parents. She took it upon herself to take care of her family as best she could. Her world changes when she finds out that she has magical abilities. She wants to learn magic so much but stops herself because her family comes first. You can feel the determination and somewhat desperation of Ropa. It's a lot of pressure to be a 15-year-old and to be responsible for a household. She always thinks of everyone first before she thinks of herself. Because she can't find the balance, she makes some reckless decisions that put her in harms way for no reason. I found myself rooting for Ropa as well as questioning her motives. You can't do everything at once and expect it to work out in your favor. Ropa makes a lot of mistakes in this book. She falls on her ass pretty hard. BUT, Ropa learns that she can't do it all. When she surrenders, that's when it all falls into place. Man, I absolutely loved that for her. We struggle with Ropa in this book, but we also grow with her. All of her mistakes teach her a lesson. This sequel was written with so many layers. The first peel shows just the briefest glimpse of the center. As you continue to shed the next layer, you discover something bigger is happening. We have only scratched the surface of the story. Something big is coming and somehow Ropa is in the middle of it. I don't know what it is yet. I'm truly excited for the next installment! It's a refreshing series and I can't wait to see Ropa come to her full power! I hope this intrigues you to try it out.

XOXO

Sincerely,