Empire of the Damned by Jay Kristoff

Wow, what another fantastic dark fantasy book from Jay Kristoff, and a perfect sequel to the masterpiece that was Empire of the Vampire. I read Empire of the Vampire just last year (2023), so I luckily only had to wait a few months before this sequel came out but I was still counting down the days to get my hands on it. Kristoff did not disappoint.

I'm very impressed how Kristoff keeps the timelines so clear and fluid. Although you bounce back and forth to the past and present, it never feels abrupt. Every stop and restart has a specific reason and adds something extra to the storyline. The interview aspect of this retelling also adds an extra dimension that makes the story that much more entertaining.

The main character and narrator, Gabriel, was just as fantastic as in the first book. Witty, brutal and flawed but also with a tender, bleeding heart makes for an intriguing combo when fighting vampires and trying to keep the Holy Grail and savior for their world alive. I love how he and Dior's relationship continues to develop, the way they speak to each other at times gives much needed levity between fight scenes and dark situations. Plus, it just makes both characters even more interesting.

There is a second narrator added to this book to help fill in scenes where Gabriel is unable to shed light on. I enjoyed this addition to get a bit more detail regarding vampire's lifestyles and hierarchies as well as receive more development on this second narrator. You also get a great new character, Phoebe, who helps Gabriel see things in different ways. I felt she was a wonderful addition and enjoyed the complexity she added to everything. However, Gabriel is definitely the best character of the series and I so enjoy his side comments and quips as he is recounting the story.

This sequel has several heartbreaking scenes, I of course won't give details but best to warn you so you prepare your mind and heart. Although a bit sadder and darker at times than the first book, it was a thrilling book that continued to raise the stakes of the Grail and Gabriel's journey. Some of the secrets brought up in book one are revealed which I appreciated as it's hard to keep guessing for 3 books straight. The last 100 pages of this book was masterful with a whirlwind of action, emotion and overall chaos. This sequel was just as compelling and hard to put down as the first book and this series is definitely another favorite of mine. I just know the third and final book will perfectly wrap up this story and I cannot wait to fan girl over all these characters again once that book is written and released.

Thank you to NetGalley for supplying me a free copy of the first portion of the book. Of course, I devoured it in one night and then had to anxiously wait to get the full copy in my hands. Always still appreciate receiving free copies to read before others.

Synopsis: From holy cup comes holy light;
The faithful hands sets world aright.
And in the Seven Martyrs’ sight,
Mere man shall end this endless night.