This was definitely a step up from part 1 - the art style was a lot more detailed, and the story was much more gripping and exciting. The plot was exciting and made sense for each of the characters, while keeping the stakes low enough to preserve the happy ending that we got from Winter. I wish we had seen a little more of Cress, Thorne, Kai, and even Cinder in this one, but at the same time I liked getting to know Kinney better and seeing that extra depth for Iko. The conclusion was heartwarming and set the stage perfectly for the extended "epilogue" (short story) at the end of Stars Above.

It took me a long time to finally pick these up, and I'm glad I did!! Wires & Nerve does a great job filling in some of the gaps for Stars Above and tying up the loose ends from Winter. It was also really nice to read from Iko's perspective and see the world and story through her eyes. The story is exciting and the pacing is great. The art style also fits the aesthetic of the series really well. Excited to pick up volume 2!

This duology has been so entertaining - I struggled to put both books down. The setting and story is mystical and enthralling, and the writing grips you from the first page. I didn't enjoy The Thorn Queen quite as much as The Rose Bargain - a few elements from book 1 like the wedding trials felt repetitive and unnecessary. The characters also felt more static this time around, and the emotional connection just wasn't there in some spots. I absolutely loved that this book took place in the Otherworld - anyone who likes the Folk of the Air series will enjoy this one. I really liked the folkloric elements and the way the magic was woven into the Otherworld. The plot was also engaging most of the time - despite my gripes I did finish this in a sitting or two. The epilogue was a perfect way to tie off some of the loose ends from book 1, and to see where our characters ended up. I do wish we had gotten a little more depth from Lydia, Bram, and Queen Mor. Altogether, this was a satisfying conclusion to the duology. I have really enjoyed this world and the cast of characters. There is more steam than spice in this installment, but I would still consider it middle to upper YA. Thank you so much to NetGalley and Harper Collins for the eARC!