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A submerged Earth, secrets, and surprises. You’ll find this and much more in Journey to the Heart of the Abyss, the sequel to London Shah’s critically acclaimed young adult science-fiction novel The Light at the Bottom of the World. For more on this fantastic duology, read my review of the first book and interview with the author.

Journey to the Heart of the Abyss finds Leyla McQueen embarking on another risky mission to rescue someone she loves. With rising tensions between humans and Anthropoids spreading throughout London and the authorities hot on her trail, Leyla and her allies must navigate the dangerous waters to bring their friend safely home. At the same time, she is determined to expose the schemes and lies of the government that have caused humanity to live in fear of Anthropoids and embrace a false belief of one day returning to the surface. As Leyla journeys deeper into the abyss, she is faced with an undeniable truth about her past that will irrevocably change her forever.

One of the standout features of the Light the Abyss duology is the distinctive underwater setting. In this sequel, London Shah adds another layer to her submerged world through her vivid imagery of ocean creatures (which are truly terrifying), the abyss, and new locales. An expanded view of this captivating world is a welcome addition to this novel.

Leyla McQueen is battling many challenges in this book. She’s desperate to find her beloved, is learning more about her past, and discovering the depths of deception at the hands of the government. Through it all, she displays strength, grace, and courage. She never falters in her convictions and never gives up on fighting for the truth. Leyla’s faith holds her steady in a churning sea of secrets and deceit. By bringing the truth to light she ensures humanity will continue to adapt, thrive, and peacefully coexist in their watery environment.

The stakes are higher than ever in Journey to the Heart of the Abyss. Characters find themselves in more perilous situations, there is an increase in conflict between humans and Anthropoids that threatens to upend their fragile stability, and the complex conspiracy that serves to instill fear and control humanity continues to unravel. Just when you think you’ve figured out what’s going on, London Shah throws in a plot twist you never see coming. There are quite a few bombshells dropped this time around that are truly game changing for the characters and the story.

Final thoughts: Journey to the Heart of the Abyss stuns and thrills as it reaches its climactic end. It is a dramatic, emotional, and immensely satisfying conclusion to the Light the Abyss duology.

Journey to the Heart of the Abyss is on sale now.

Thank you to Little, Brown Young Readers for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review!