Hi all!
Today, I have a review of The Atlas Paradox by Olivie Blake.
This book is the long-awaited sequel to The Atlas Six. I read the first book last year and adored every minute of it, so much that I immediately put it in my favorites. Therefore, the sequel has been one of my most anticipated book releases of the year.
Quick note: I always do my best to make my reviews completely spoiler-free. But considering this book is part of a series, I recommend proceeding with caution if you haven’t read it yet and want to avoid spoilers of any kind!
Let’s get into the review!
The Atlas Paradox picks up pretty much around where we left off last time. Our medeians are settling in for an initiation ceremony before beginning their final year at the Society. All but one. Libby Rhodes is still missing.
Altogether, this was a great reading experience. Blake’s exquisite writing continues to pull you right into her world and keep you engaged. I still love all the immaculate dark academia vibes that this series has to offer. And, of course, the characters. I missed them all terribly, so being with them again was a joy.
Most importantly, I like that we get to see different sides of the characters this time around.
I especially liked Tristan’s arc. I think we really got to see him grow into his own here and shed some of the insecurities that were holding him back in the first book. This sequel really cemented him as one of my favorite characters in the series.
Nico is still an extremely lovable and entertaining character. I love his dynamic with the rest of the characters, especially with Tristan. And getting to see more of Gideon was such a treat! He and Nico are one of my favorite pairings and they had some of the best moments in the whole book.
I enjoyed the rest of the characters’ arcs, as well. I like that we got to see a more human side to Parisa and I’m excited to see where Blake goes with her character. Libby’s arc was interesting but did feel a bit rushed. Still, I love her character’s progression so far. Callum was absolutely chaotic and fun in this one but didn’t really do a lot so I do wish we got more from him.
I struggled the most with Reina’s character this time, much like in the first book. I was intrigued by the points she was making but I simply could not stand how repetitive her parts felt. This leads us to the parts of the book that I found lacking.
Turns out, this didn’t exactly live up to my expectations. Essentially, this felt more like a filler book. There were cases of repeating what we already know and the pacing felt slow at times, particularly in the first half. The pacing does recover towards the end, leaving us hungry for the next in the series. But, I just don’t think this was as eventful or captivating as the first book.
However, I still enjoyed this sequel, mostly due to the characters and the fascinating universe Blake has created. And I’ll eagerly be awaiting book three! I know the author has something truly amazing in store for us. If you enjoyed the first book and love these characters, I recommend it.
As always, I leave you with my rating and favorite quote!
“Like maybe he could ask her something silly and trifling, like if she’d ever looked at the moon and felt empty or if she knew how it felt to set foot in a country with a language she didn’t speak, and she wouldn’t have to tell him the answer, because he would just know it. He would just know.”
Have you read this book? If so, I would love to know your thoughts!
Thank you so much for reading this review! I hope you have a lovely day and happy reading! 💖
