Review – Rise of the Arcane Fire (The Secret Order, Book 2) by Kristin Bailey (5/5 stars)

Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Steampunk
Length: 480 pages
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Release Date: February 3, 2015
ISBN-13: 978-1442468030
Stand Alone or Series: 2nd book in the Secret Order series
Source: Bought
Rating: 5/5 stars

This is the second book in the Secret Order series. The third (and final) book titled Shadow of the War Machine is already out. I adored this book. This was a wonderful YA steampunk novel that I absolutely devoured. There are lots of wonderful steampunk devices, some mystery, and some great action; even a little romance.

After the events in the first book someone is out to kill Meg. She is trying to make the most of life running the toy shop left to her and stealing moments with Will when she can. Then suddenly she gets a chance to follow her dreams; she is offered an apprenticeship as an Amusementist with the Secret Order. However things are not easy for Meg. As the first woman Amusementist apprentice ever she has a hard road to follow. Things only get more difficult when Will decides to take a position with the Foundry in Scotland, not to mention someone is still trying to kill Meg.

I really really enjoyed this book even more than the first in the series. I loved how determined Meg is to work in a technical field and prove herself no matter what the challenges. She was so engaging and easy to relate to and my heart just broke for her as she struggled through day to day life; trying to remember that the knowledge she was gaining was worth all the taunting and sabotage from her fellow male students.

I loved watching Meg learn about all these nifty steampunk elements and make some of her own. I also love the relationship she and Will have. They both recognize that they need to become people on their own before than can be together. I loved that they stick to what they need to feel complete, but still remain steadfast and respectful of each other. It was very sweet and a good example of a healthy YA relationship.

This book did a great job tying up one major plot point while also making progress in the larger story. There is a lot of action and excitement in here woven into all the steampunky goodness.

Overall I really loved this book. I loved the story and the characters and all of the wonderful steampunk devices. I love Meg as a character and her steadfastness to learn and broaden her knowledge no matter what the hurdles. I also love that her and Will have a loving and responsible relationship together. I would definitely recommend this whole series to those who enjoy steampunk reads.

If you are looking for an excellent YA steampunk read I would also recommend Gail Carriger’s books, The Baskerville Affair series by Emma Jane Holloway, The Treasure Chronicles by Elizabeth Jordan, the Clockwork Dagger Duology by Beth Cato and the Stoker and Holmes series by Colleen Gleason.

This book goes towards the following reading challenges:
– You Read How Many Books? Reading Challenge