Audiobook Review – Paper and Fire (The Great Library, Book 2) by Rachel Caine, Narrated by Julian Elfer (4.5/5 stars)

Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Steampunk
Length: 11 hours and 5 minutes (400 pages)
Publisher: Recorded Books
Release Date: July 5, 2016
ASIN: B01GEZZIGA
Stand Alone or Series: 2nd book in the Great Library series
Source: Audiobook from Audible.com
Rating: 4.5/5 stars

“With an iron fist, the Great Library controls the knowledge of the world, ruthlessly stamping out all rebellion, forbidding the personal ownership of books in the name of the greater good. Jess Brightwell has survived his introduction to the sinister, seductive world of the Library, but serving in its army is nothing like he envisioned. His life and the lives of those he cares for have been altered forever. His best friend is lost, and Morgan, the girl he loves, is locked away in the Iron Tower and doomed to a life apart.
Embarking on a mission to save one of their own, Jess and his band of allies make one wrong move and suddenly find themselves hunted by the Library’s deadly automata and forced to flee Alexandria, all the way to London. But Jess’ home isn’t safe anymore. The Welsh army is coming, London is burning, and soon Jess must choose between his friends, his family, and the Library willing to sacrifice anything and anyone in the search for ultimate control.”

This is the second book in The Great Library series, there are five books planned for this series. I absolutely loved this book. This is such an interesting world with unique characters.

I listen to these on audiobook and they are very well done. Elfer does an amazing job with narration and I would highly recommend this series on audiobook if you enjoy audiobooks.

In this book Jess and crew have to join together to rescue Thomas and save Morgan from the Iron Tower. Along the way they hear strange rumors of something called The Black Archives. Jess believes the Black Archives could be the key to stopping the Great Library’s abusive power.

There was a ton of action in this book and lots of interesting intrigue. We learn more about the obscurists and what they can do and also get to venture into the Iron Tower. I have been loving this series: the story, the characters, and the world are all just perfect.

Overall I am loving this series and this was a great addition to it. I would recommend this series to those who enjoy historical fantasy with intriguing world-building and engaging characters. I can’t wait to read the third book, “Ash and Quill”.