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The Abyss Surrounds Us #2
The Edge of the Abyss
Three weeks have passed since Cassandra Leung pledged her allegiance to ruthless pirate-queen Santa Elena and set free Bao, the sea monster Reckoner she'd been forced to train. The days as a pirate trainee are long and grueling, but it's not the physical pain that Cas dreads most. It's being forced to work with Swift, the pirate girl who broke her heart. But Cas has even bigger problems when she discovers Boa is not the only a monster swimming free. Other Reckoners illegally sold to pirates have escaped their captors and are taking the NeoPacific by storm, attacking ships at random and ruining the ocean ecosystem. As a Reckoner trainer, Cas might be the only one who can stop them. But how can she take up arms against the creatures she used to care for and protect? Will Cas embrace the murky morals that life as a pirate brings or perish in the dark waters of the NeoPacific? The exciting sequel to The Abyss Surrounds Us.
320 pages, ebook
First published April 18, 2017
About the author
Emily Skrutskie
12 books1,019 followersEmily Skrutskie is six feet tall. She lives and works in Los Angeles. Skrutskie is the author of THE ABYSS SURROUNDS US series, HULLMETAL GIRLS, and the Bloodright Trilogy, starting with BONDS OF BRASS. Her latest novel, THE SALVATION GAMBIT, is now available.
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December 12, 2016This is my second book. THE ABYSS SURROUNDS US was a book about getting right with the world. THE EDGE OF THE ABYSS, in contrast, is a book about getting right with yourself. It's got more monsters, more pirates, more salty pirate language, and way more "equal footing" than the first book. I had a great time writing it, and I hope you have a great time reading it.
P.S. If you want to get a jump start on the first three chapters of the book, click HERE.
P.S. If you want to get a jump start on the first three chapters of the book, click HERE.
June 8, 2017
fuckING HELL who am i what has the book done
i swear if i don't find myself a swift kent in the next three years i'm becoming a pirate it was obviously a good decision for cas
Why You Should Read This Book:
● lesbian pirates
● swift jumps into the sea forgetting her mission forgetting the maneating beast inside because cas almost died
● even though they were fighting
● even though cas told her to stay out of her life??
● that’s love for you
● SO MUCH CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT
●
● indian character
● resolution for durga
● TOM
● it’s been a week so i don’t remember TOO much
● yikes idk what that says about the book
● but i mean
● i can 100% say that i loved it
● also, I LOVE SWIFT AND CAS
// i actually do have a bunch of problems: the ending is too rushed, a lot of things don’t add up bUT OVERALL I LOVE IT
buddy read with elise and amygator
_______________________
Queer book #4 of Pride Month
i swear if i don't find myself a swift kent in the next three years i'm becoming a pirate it was obviously a good decision for cas
Somewhere along the way, Swift slips her hand in mine. Somewhere farther along the way, I stop minding that it’s there.
Why You Should Read This Book:
● lesbian pirates
● swift jumps into the sea forgetting her mission forgetting the maneating beast inside because cas almost died
● even though they were fighting
● even though cas told her to stay out of her life??
● that’s love for you
● SO MUCH CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT
●
● indian character
● resolution for durga
● TOM
● it’s been a week so i don’t remember TOO much
● yikes idk what that says about the book
● but i mean
● i can 100% say that i loved it
● also, I LOVE SWIFT AND CAS
// i actually do have a bunch of problems: the ending is too rushed, a lot of things don’t add up bUT OVERALL I LOVE IT
buddy read with elise and amygator
_______________________
Queer book #4 of Pride Month
June 4, 2022
“Eighteen, jackass. You can't spell my name, you don't know how old I am—”
“You absolutely can't talk when you didn't even know my last name until a week ago.”
Four stars for my favorite pair of girlfriends. If you want to see some actual thoughts on this series, I’d try my review of book one. This review is going to be a bit of a fangirling mess.
CAS(SANDRA) LEUNG
(source)
I LOVE CAS. She’s a clever, witty, morally ambiguous main character. Cas’ partial villain arc is so important to me. I love how she walks a line between a villain arc and a heroine arc. This isn’t an arc you see much in ya. Characters becoming more morally ambiguous almost always comes from them beginning the book as naive.
SWIFT (KENT) AND THE ROMANCE
(source)
Cas and Swift are seriously such a great couple, I could talk about them forever. They're both well-developed, dimensional characters. Despite their conflict in this book, they still remain close.
MY ACTUAL THOUGHTS
Okay, so maybe these books aren't necessarily the pinnacle of literature. But I have so much fun reading them. They're humorous, sweet, and well-plotted.
•Emily Skrutskie has a talent for humor and dialogue. This book made me laugh so many times, I couldn't even keep track.
•The moral conflicts surrounding rich vs. poor here were even more amazing than book one. I talked about this on my review for book one as well, but it really just keeps getting better.
•This specific book deserves a shoutut for getting me invested in some side characters. Chuck and Varma are both so great, and I’d love to know even more about them. Santa Elena, the first book’s villain, has believable motivation, and it’s hard not to sympathize with her.
VERDICT: This duology stands out from a sea of typical YA sf because of its awesome main character, humorous and banter-filled romance plot, and moral conflict. Absolutely cannot recommend this enough.
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June 24, 2021DNF at 75%
I tried to make it all the way through, I really did, but I either waited too long to read this sequel or it did not stack up to book one. I'm leaning toward the latter, because book one was SO expertly done with the enemies to lovers romance sprinkled throughout the plot, whereas this felt like a lot of plot with some now-awkward romance side plot that lacks the tension and angst of the first book. In the end, I found I didn't really care how this ends? Cas seemed so wishy washy betweens the "good and evil" sides to the battle that she was in that I didn't know what to root for, and ultimately it just made me lose interest since I feel like book one ended at a good enough spot to be a standalone on my shelf.
I tried to make it all the way through, I really did, but I either waited too long to read this sequel or it did not stack up to book one. I'm leaning toward the latter, because book one was SO expertly done with the enemies to lovers romance sprinkled throughout the plot, whereas this felt like a lot of plot with some now-awkward romance side plot that lacks the tension and angst of the first book. In the end, I found I didn't really care how this ends? Cas seemed so wishy washy betweens the "good and evil" sides to the battle that she was in that I didn't know what to root for, and ultimately it just made me lose interest since I feel like book one ended at a good enough spot to be a standalone on my shelf.
August 23, 2017
4.5 stars.
I didn’t think a series about badass lesbian pirates and terrifyingly deadly sea monsters could possibly get any better, but somehow Emily Skrutskie took all of my expectations after The Abyss Surrounds Us and smashed them into pieces with the force of a giant terrapoid.
The Edge of the Abyss had all of the moral ambiguity, pirate intrigue, character development, action, and wlw feels that I needed AND THEN SOME. It picks up three weeks after the end of the first book, as Cas is adjusting to her new role on board the Minnow.
Cas is such a fantastic heroine—she’s smart and strong and vulnerable. She’s struggling to keep up with her new responsibilities (she doesn’t know how to fight, she hates working outwhich is one of the most relatable sci-fi character traits I’ve read about in a while), as well as dealing with the moral crisis of turning her back on everything she’s trained for. Despite all this, though, she’s tough and resilient and determined to do what’s right.
The romance between Cas and Swift was a bit more prominent in this book than in the previous, as they struggle to stay on equal footing despite the things they’ve done. They were a little overly angsty at times, but I really fucking love them so I could put up with it.
Santa Elena and the other trainees felt even more fully developed, as we got to learn more about their backstories, families, and what drove them into a life of piracy.
Honestly the only negative thing I can say about this series is that I wish it was longer???? It feels good and complete and I am happy with it as is but if the author ever decides she wants to write more about my favorite pirate girlfriends and their adventures I will 100% read the hell out of it.
This review was also posted on my blog.
I didn’t think a series about badass lesbian pirates and terrifyingly deadly sea monsters could possibly get any better, but somehow Emily Skrutskie took all of my expectations after The Abyss Surrounds Us and smashed them into pieces with the force of a giant terrapoid.
The Edge of the Abyss had all of the moral ambiguity, pirate intrigue, character development, action, and wlw feels that I needed AND THEN SOME. It picks up three weeks after the end of the first book, as Cas is adjusting to her new role on board the Minnow.
Cas is such a fantastic heroine—she’s smart and strong and vulnerable. She’s struggling to keep up with her new responsibilities (she doesn’t know how to fight, she hates working out
The romance between Cas and Swift was a bit more prominent in this book than in the previous, as they struggle to stay on equal footing despite the things they’ve done. They were a little overly angsty at times, but I really fucking love them so I could put up with it.
Santa Elena and the other trainees felt even more fully developed, as we got to learn more about their backstories, families, and what drove them into a life of piracy.
Honestly the only negative thing I can say about this series is that I wish it was longer???? It feels good and complete and I am happy with it as is but if the author ever decides she wants to write more about my favorite pirate girlfriends and their adventures I will 100% read the hell out of it.
This review was also posted on my blog.
September 29, 2017
DNF @47%
The first book was much better than this. What the fuck even was this? I'm so mad because I really liked the first book and then I get this boring shit. The plot is so dull and lame, honestly it isn't holding my interest and I really don't care what's happening anymore. I found myself skimming through this and just wanting to get this over with, but lols I dnf instead.
Swift and Cas are still my OTP and Santa Elena can marry me.
The first book was much better than this. What the fuck even was this? I'm so mad because I really liked the first book and then I get this boring shit. The plot is so dull and lame, honestly it isn't holding my interest and I really don't care what's happening anymore. I found myself skimming through this and just wanting to get this over with, but lols I dnf instead.
Swift and Cas are still my OTP and Santa Elena can marry me.
April 19, 2018
Somewhere along the way, Swift slips her hand in mine. Somewhere farther along the way, I stop minding that it’s there.
I LOVE THIS SERIES SO MUCH while I didn't love this book as much as book one I still really enjoyed it. This series has sea monsters, pirates, moral ambiguity, action and one of the cutest f/f couples ever which makes it honestly one of my favourite YA duologies ever.
For me this book wasn't as good as book one for a few reasons. I felt at times it strayed a little from the point and some of the plot points got a little convoluted. I was confused at times about the power dynamics between Cas/Swift and Santa Elena although this might have been my fault for leaving so much time between reading book one and two.
Cas and Swifts romance is at the centre of this series and I love them so much. While I think book 2 may have had a tad bit too much unnecessary angst, it also did a really good job at portraying the complication of their relationship and examining the complexities of both their characters and their bond together.
But one thing that remained constant for me was my love for THE CHARACTERS. All the characters in this series are my loves. Cassandra is clever, witty and complex and I love how her arc had her learn the grey areas of life and start to work within them. I also adore Santa Elena who's just so smart, and hard. I love that she's such an accomplished, respected and brutal and always has a plan. I also really loved Varma in this, he was funny and cute and I loved his friendship with Cas so much. He went from being a character I had nothing to say about to one I LOVED
Even though this wasn't my favourite series ender ever (too open ended) it was still really good and this series overall is GREAT. It's such an entertaining series, I love how I fly through these and become so immersed in the world and the characters. I honestly think fantasy and sci-fi fans will love this one, plus its got The Gays TM which makes everything better.
April 19, 2017
You have to understand that when I think of a really good YA Fantasy duology, this is immediately the one that comes to my mind.
In a few words, this story can be described as two lesbian pirates taking over the world with their sea monster. At least that’s how I describe this duology every single time someone asks me what it’s about.
This story was definitely action-packed, even more than The Abyss Surrounds Us, it was action after action, and I never found myself thinking ‘Okay that’s nice, but where is the action ?’ Never.
I always like a good pirate story, and this one just gave me what I wanted : pirates, betrayals, sea monsters, battles, kick-ass ladies, and overall great character developments.
To me the huge surprise of this book is how much I enjoyed Varma, I remembered nearly nothing of him, but in this book I just adored him, he was freaking great and his friendship with Cas was everything !
I think this book was more about finding yourself and your purpose in life.
Cas is torn between her life with the Minnow - what Santa Elena expects of her and her loyalty to Swift - and the want to be reunited with her family - even though she knows they see her as a traitor now. During the entire story, she never really knows what to do, she keeps going back and forth between her decisions because she’s simply lost. She sees - she knows - that everything isn’t black or white, and she has to deal with this ‘epiphany’.
Swift is still trying her best to keep her family safe while trying to achieve her goals in life, and she can’t help being jealous of how easy it is to Cas to adapt to this life. I think I loved her even more than Cas because she felt more real to me, more vulnerable, and she kept trying to do her best even though Cas was giving her the cold shoulder most of the time. She’s a really strong character and I’m glad people finally realized it.
I truly recommend this duology if you want to see some badass pirate ladies in some YA Fantasy books.
4.5
Thank you Netgalley for providing me an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
In a few words, this story can be described as two lesbian pirates taking over the world with their sea monster. At least that’s how I describe this duology every single time someone asks me what it’s about.
This story was definitely action-packed, even more than The Abyss Surrounds Us, it was action after action, and I never found myself thinking ‘Okay that’s nice, but where is the action ?’ Never.
I always like a good pirate story, and this one just gave me what I wanted : pirates, betrayals, sea monsters, battles, kick-ass ladies, and overall great character developments.
To me the huge surprise of this book is how much I enjoyed Varma, I remembered nearly nothing of him, but in this book I just adored him, he was freaking great and his friendship with Cas was everything !
I think this book was more about finding yourself and your purpose in life.
Cas is torn between her life with the Minnow - what Santa Elena expects of her and her loyalty to Swift - and the want to be reunited with her family - even though she knows they see her as a traitor now. During the entire story, she never really knows what to do, she keeps going back and forth between her decisions because she’s simply lost. She sees - she knows - that everything isn’t black or white, and she has to deal with this ‘epiphany’.
Swift is still trying her best to keep her family safe while trying to achieve her goals in life, and she can’t help being jealous of how easy it is to Cas to adapt to this life. I think I loved her even more than Cas because she felt more real to me, more vulnerable, and she kept trying to do her best even though Cas was giving her the cold shoulder most of the time. She’s a really strong character and I’m glad people finally realized it.
I truly recommend this duology if you want to see some badass pirate ladies in some YA Fantasy books.
4.5
Thank you Netgalley for providing me an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
March 12, 2017
I did think this was slightly better than book 1. I didn't get almost angry at this book, like I did the first. Unfortunately, I still I didn't feel the magic I was hoping for, but overall it was an okay read.
I felt like this book was almost too short. There were a few major things that never got resolved. And besides some monster battles, not much happened. Again, this book had pirates, but I still had trouble telling most of them apart. I really wish the secondary characters had been more defined.
The "romance" of the book, still left me feeling kind of "what was that?" I guess I don't know what to make of it. They spent half the book hating each other, but still really didn't fall in love at the end either. It was a very strange combo for me.
There was some exciting monster battles, that I enjoyed. The only issue is sometimes they were so chaotic, I had trouble realizing what was going on. I wish the author would have included some sketches of the monsters, it would have made things easier to see in my head.
Emily Skrutskie, can write and I think she will be around as an author for a long time. These books were not really up to my personal tastes. But with so many good reviews, I'm sure others will enjoy them more than I did.
An ARC was given to me by Netgalley, for a honest review.
I felt like this book was almost too short. There were a few major things that never got resolved. And besides some monster battles, not much happened. Again, this book had pirates, but I still had trouble telling most of them apart. I really wish the secondary characters had been more defined.
The "romance" of the book, still left me feeling kind of "what was that?" I guess I don't know what to make of it. They spent half the book hating each other, but still really didn't fall in love at the end either. It was a very strange combo for me.
There was some exciting monster battles, that I enjoyed. The only issue is sometimes they were so chaotic, I had trouble realizing what was going on. I wish the author would have included some sketches of the monsters, it would have made things easier to see in my head.
Emily Skrutskie, can write and I think she will be around as an author for a long time. These books were not really up to my personal tastes. But with so many good reviews, I'm sure others will enjoy them more than I did.
An ARC was given to me by Netgalley, for a honest review.
December 17, 2017
better than the first book, that's for sure, but idk i didn't feel it enough i guess
but it was good and gay so here are my four stars
~~~~
this is my unofficial start of #sapphicathon bc im not sure I'll be able to actually participate but i want to be here in spirit
also this is a br w a paws wielding torturer
but it was good and gay so here are my four stars
~~~~
this is my unofficial start of #sapphicathon bc im not sure I'll be able to actually participate but i want to be here in spirit
also this is a br w a paws wielding torturer
February 10, 2017
*SCREAMS INTO THE ABYSS*
YESsssssssssssssssss SO GOOD
YESsssssssssssssssss SO GOOD
August 20, 2017
Solid sequel and conclusion to the duology about our favorite queer pirate ladies and sea monsters!
I honestly don't understand why I waited so long to read The Edge of the Abyss. Clearly I've made some poor life choices. The book is fast-paced action-packed exciting story with good plot line and wonderful character developments.
Cas Leung is amazing protagonist. I liked her in the previous book but here she truly shines. Same can be said about Swift.
I love my beautiful sapphic pirates. Their romances shifted from clear power imbalance in book 1 to equals/rivalry with bad blood but strong feelings and desire to make it work. So much fun to read! I like the romantic dynamics. They were complex and often hot-and-cold every other scene but taking into account their circumstances it made sense.
I'd like to say a few words about the caption Santa Elena. She's one of the most complex characters I've ever read about. Every time I thought I finally figured her out she did something to turn everything upside down. Her characterization is as multi-layered as it can get. Highest praise to Emily Skrutskie for creating her.
I love the sci-fi elements of the book. Giant sea monsters keep on being a gem of the series. Also I appreciate the fightings, battles in the ocean and general mood of the story. Spec fiction at its finest.
I was delighted to see the diversity of the world and the characters. First of all, the equal position of people of all genders. No only male characters in positions of power. Santa Elena is kickass Black woman with 10 year old kid and she's the captain of the pirate ship. And it's not the only case. Bless zero sexism and misogyny.
Of course, wlw MC and her romance with the other girl. I adore the way Emily Skrutskie has done.
Great sequel all around!
Why you should read the series (if you haven't already):
• GIANT SEA MONSTERS whom shore-people create and train to fight of pirates. Yes, you read it right. TRAINED GIANT SEA MONSTERS vs PIRATES
• Action action action!
• MC is Asian-American lesbian trainer of monsters
• wlw romance
• engaging writing and A+ reading experience in general
• have I mentioned pet sea monsters who destroy ships but are giant softies?
I honestly don't understand why I waited so long to read The Edge of the Abyss. Clearly I've made some poor life choices. The book is fast-paced action-packed exciting story with good plot line and wonderful character developments.
Cas Leung is amazing protagonist. I liked her in the previous book but here she truly shines. Same can be said about Swift.
I love my beautiful sapphic pirates. Their romances shifted from clear power imbalance in book 1 to equals/rivalry with bad blood but strong feelings and desire to make it work. So much fun to read! I like the romantic dynamics. They were complex and often hot-and-cold every other scene but taking into account their circumstances it made sense.
I'd like to say a few words about the caption Santa Elena. She's one of the most complex characters I've ever read about. Every time I thought I finally figured her out she did something to turn everything upside down. Her characterization is as multi-layered as it can get. Highest praise to Emily Skrutskie for creating her.
I love the sci-fi elements of the book. Giant sea monsters keep on being a gem of the series. Also I appreciate the fightings, battles in the ocean and general mood of the story. Spec fiction at its finest.
I was delighted to see the diversity of the world and the characters. First of all, the equal position of people of all genders. No only male characters in positions of power. Santa Elena is kickass Black woman with 10 year old kid and she's the captain of the pirate ship. And it's not the only case. Bless zero sexism and misogyny.
Of course, wlw MC and her romance with the other girl. I adore the way Emily Skrutskie has done.
Great sequel all around!
Why you should read the series (if you haven't already):
• GIANT SEA MONSTERS whom shore-people create and train to fight of pirates. Yes, you read it right. TRAINED GIANT SEA MONSTERS vs PIRATES
• Action action action!
• MC is Asian-American lesbian trainer of monsters
• wlw romance
• engaging writing and A+ reading experience in general
• have I mentioned pet sea monsters who destroy ships but are giant softies?
November 13, 2017
I really wanted to love this book. Even after my issues with the first book I had high hopes the sequel would make up for those issues. I was happy that her brother called her out on the Stockholm syndrom but sadly nothing really came of it. Just like the first book the plot was interesting but I wanted more world building. A lot of the characters were still annoying but at least I got to see more of the trainees developpement. I love pirates and sea monsters but I didnt like how the main character Cas kept second guessing herself. She still liked Swift despite everything shes done and what she found out at the end of the first book.
I loved that the main character was asian but I really didnt like Cas and Swifts relationship. It was unhealthy and down right ridiculous at times. One date and some sex doesnt help you magically forgive someone. I dont mind morally grey characters but a weak main character who turns their back on their family just rubs me the wrong way. It wasnt what I was expecting when I picked up the first book. Since shes a monster trainer I was expecting a kick ass female character but it didnt feel that way when she went against everything she believed in. I still dont understand why she did it.
I still wasnt sure how to felt about Swift, and Cas's polarizing feelings towards her made my feelings even harder to decipher. One minute she hates her and the next she thinks Swift deserve this great future. In the end their relationship frustrated me so much that it was hard to like Swift. Even though I know the captain is a very good manipulator I didnt like how being favored by the captain seemed more important to Swift than her relationship with Cas. I hated how she manipulated Cas into fogiving her by making it seem like she was doing it for her family and how Cas blamed herself for not seeing the truth about Swift.
The captains manipulation kind of reminded me of some kind of cult leader who brainwashes their followers. Why else would these characters make such stupid decisions. At least it makes the captain a good antagonist. Also wouldnt they all be guilty since the amount of Hellbeast equals the amount of pirate ships. I think my favorite part of this book was Bao and the action. I was a little disapointed with the ending but the writing flowed easily and if you think you wont have an issue with the characters and their relationship then the rest of the book is definitely worth it.
*received in exchange for an honest review*
I loved that the main character was asian but I really didnt like Cas and Swifts relationship. It was unhealthy and down right ridiculous at times. One date and some sex doesnt help you magically forgive someone. I dont mind morally grey characters but a weak main character who turns their back on their family just rubs me the wrong way. It wasnt what I was expecting when I picked up the first book. Since shes a monster trainer I was expecting a kick ass female character but it didnt feel that way when she went against everything she believed in. I still dont understand why she did it.
I still wasnt sure how to felt about Swift, and Cas's polarizing feelings towards her made my feelings even harder to decipher. One minute she hates her and the next she thinks Swift deserve this great future. In the end their relationship frustrated me so much that it was hard to like Swift. Even though I know the captain is a very good manipulator I didnt like how being favored by the captain seemed more important to Swift than her relationship with Cas. I hated how she manipulated Cas into fogiving her by making it seem like she was doing it for her family and how Cas blamed herself for not seeing the truth about Swift.
The captains manipulation kind of reminded me of some kind of cult leader who brainwashes their followers. Why else would these characters make such stupid decisions. At least it makes the captain a good antagonist. Also wouldnt they all be guilty since the amount of Hellbeast equals the amount of pirate ships. I think my favorite part of this book was Bao and the action. I was a little disapointed with the ending but the writing flowed easily and if you think you wont have an issue with the characters and their relationship then the rest of the book is definitely worth it.
*received in exchange for an honest review*
June 20, 2019
I'm adding this duology to my list of blessings. What an epic adventure 🌈
February 7, 2017
As much as I enjoyed this book, I didn't know until I was 40% into it that it was a sequel. Totally my fault but I'm surprised how much I liked this book considering I haven't read the first book.
I loved the concept of this book so much. The concept of this book is without a doubt one of the best I've ever read. I love pirates so this book was right up my alley and I loved the fantastical creatures in this book as well. This reminded me of Pirates of the Caribbean, which is one of my favorite film franchises, and if you enjoy PotC, I'd highly recommend this The Edge of the Abyss (but don't be like me, you should read the first book before reading book two).
I was actually pretty invested in Cas and Swift's relationship and I think their relationship is one of the best written that I've ever read about.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I'm excited to go read the first book. I loved the concept so, so much. If you're looking for a really exciting and fun LBGTQ fantasy series, I'd definitely recommend The Abyss Surrounds Us series.
I loved the concept of this book so much. The concept of this book is without a doubt one of the best I've ever read. I love pirates so this book was right up my alley and I loved the fantastical creatures in this book as well. This reminded me of Pirates of the Caribbean, which is one of my favorite film franchises, and if you enjoy PotC, I'd highly recommend this The Edge of the Abyss (but don't be like me, you should read the first book before reading book two).
I was actually pretty invested in Cas and Swift's relationship and I think their relationship is one of the best written that I've ever read about.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I'm excited to go read the first book. I loved the concept so, so much. If you're looking for a really exciting and fun LBGTQ fantasy series, I'd definitely recommend The Abyss Surrounds Us series.
December 16, 2017
First novel-length book for #sapphicathon and also buddy read with Santa Rin aka pirate fencer who has no time to read but BRs with me anyway ♥
SKDDJDKD what a satisfying ending ❤❤❤
RTC
SKDDJDKD what a satisfying ending ❤❤❤
RTC
February 7, 2017
I can't even, I am shook
Full review to come closer to release date :)
Full review to come closer to release date :)
June 12, 2017
I really really wanted to love this. Maybe expectations were too high.
There are so many great things about this duology : pirates & sea creatures & sea creature trainers & a brilliant cast of characters. We have women of colour in charge of pirate ships and no one ever questions it. Just like no one ever questions the lesbian relationship. That's what I call positive representation.
I loved Cas and Swift in the 1st book but in this one I almost wanted to punch them. They went from hating each ther to kissing each other in circles over and over and I just couldn't back their relationship anymore.
(although yes, a couple of things Swift did made my heart melt)
For some reason it took me ages to get through. Why?
I believe it lacked urgency. It lacked a pinned goal or threat. A "baddy" is mentionned but even by the end, he doesn't really appear, nor does he have a major threat that is urgently needed to be dealt with. There are a few monster attacks but by the time they came I think I just wanted to be done with the book.
Gosh, th review makes it seem bad. It really isn't. I had just hoped it would be amazing and it didn't live up to my expectations. I would still recommend it and share it and talk about it to whomever might like it !
There are so many great things about this duology : pirates & sea creatures & sea creature trainers & a brilliant cast of characters. We have women of colour in charge of pirate ships and no one ever questions it. Just like no one ever questions the lesbian relationship. That's what I call positive representation.
I loved Cas and Swift in the 1st book but in this one I almost wanted to punch them. They went from hating each ther to kissing each other in circles over and over and I just couldn't back their relationship anymore.
(although yes, a couple of things Swift did made my heart melt)
For some reason it took me ages to get through. Why?
I believe it lacked urgency. It lacked a pinned goal or threat. A "baddy" is mentionned but even by the end, he doesn't really appear, nor does he have a major threat that is urgently needed to be dealt with. There are a few monster attacks but by the time they came I think I just wanted to be done with the book.
Gosh, th review makes it seem bad. It really isn't. I had just hoped it would be amazing and it didn't live up to my expectations. I would still recommend it and share it and talk about it to whomever might like it !
November 5, 2017
The end of the previous book left Cas Leung in a dark place. After signing on with the pirate queen Santa Elena, a revelation of Swift's actions before Cas came on board has left their relationship in tatters. As the newest pirate leadership trainee on board Cas is very busy though, so her opportunities for relationship drama are low. Things change though when it becomes apparent that Bao is not the only pirate-born Reckoner free in the Neopacific. The free monsters, dubbed Hellbeasts by the pirates, are menacing ships and devastating the ecosystem of the ocean leaving the pirates little choice but to band together and take them down.
This is Cas clawing her life back together after it progressively fell apart in the previous book. Through this book she carves out her place on the Minnow and hashes things out with Swift as Swift herself faces things about her own life with the pirates. Meanwhile there's lots of pirate and monster action plus the return of Bao.
This is a solid conclusion to the story begun in the first book. I think it was a minor cop-out that , which makes the eventual conclusion both obvious and a bit of a cheat. I also think some of the relationship drama between Cas and Swift that Santa Elena was manipulating them with was just a little bit too manufactured and fails the five-minute rule. (Five-minute rule: If your drama can be resolved by a five minute long honest conversation, then it's not really drama).
This is Cas clawing her life back together after it progressively fell apart in the previous book. Through this book she carves out her place on the Minnow and hashes things out with Swift as Swift herself faces things about her own life with the pirates. Meanwhile there's lots of pirate and monster action plus the return of Bao.
This is a solid conclusion to the story begun in the first book. I think it was a minor cop-out that , which makes the eventual conclusion both obvious and a bit of a cheat. I also think some of the relationship drama between Cas and Swift that Santa Elena was manipulating them with was just a little bit too manufactured and fails the five-minute rule. (Five-minute rule: If your drama can be resolved by a five minute long honest conversation, then it's not really drama).
September 5, 2017
2.5
Now, before you boycott this series I want you to understand this is a "it's me at fault, not the book" situation. Why? Well, I don't tend to like duologies. Examples include the Wolf by Wolf sequel and the sequel to Six of Crows. I love series but duologies don't hold enough drama for me to want to continue.
In fact, I skimmed a lot of this book. I'm sorry. I know. It's terrible. This book, however, is not terrible. It's got a great story line that jerks at your heart and makes you weep. I am hopeless, I know.
I'll possibly write a full review, but it's important to note I skimmed from 50% onwards.
Now, before you boycott this series I want you to understand this is a "it's me at fault, not the book" situation. Why? Well, I don't tend to like duologies. Examples include the Wolf by Wolf sequel and the sequel to Six of Crows. I love series but duologies don't hold enough drama for me to want to continue.
In fact, I skimmed a lot of this book. I'm sorry. I know. It's terrible. This book, however, is not terrible. It's got a great story line that jerks at your heart and makes you weep. I am hopeless, I know.
I'll possibly write a full review, but it's important to note I skimmed from 50% onwards.
July 25, 2018
Representation: f/f romance, Asian American MC
my twitter thread and my blog post
I’ll start off by saying that the ending of the first book seemed like a perfect, open conclusion so I was sceptical about this sequel. However, I ended up liking this more than the first book.
The main selling point for this novel was the romance. Skrutskie is excellent at establishing angst in the relationship and keeping the audience on their toes for the remainder of the book to see if they’ll end up together or not. I particularly loved the characterisation of Swift – especially since she’s modelled after “bad boys” in Young Adult. She’s supposed to be the unemotional, badass love interest, but instead, she’s the soft one in the relationship that admits her feelings first and just wants to stay with Cas.
I liked that we explored more of Cas’ family in this sequel since I felt like it was open-ended in the first book. It felt somehow unrealistic that she would want to completely leave her family for her life as a pirate, but it was ultimately resolved in the end.
My main complaint was that I could barely tell what was happening at all times. I said this in my review for the first review, but I didn’t understand the various sci-fi terms used and it was difficult for me to pay attention because I wasn’t engaged.
Overall, this was a strong, action-packed sequel with a perfect blend of humour and romance, but there was just something that fell flat for me.
my twitter thread and my blog post
I’ll start off by saying that the ending of the first book seemed like a perfect, open conclusion so I was sceptical about this sequel. However, I ended up liking this more than the first book.
The main selling point for this novel was the romance. Skrutskie is excellent at establishing angst in the relationship and keeping the audience on their toes for the remainder of the book to see if they’ll end up together or not. I particularly loved the characterisation of Swift – especially since she’s modelled after “bad boys” in Young Adult. She’s supposed to be the unemotional, badass love interest, but instead, she’s the soft one in the relationship that admits her feelings first and just wants to stay with Cas.
I liked that we explored more of Cas’ family in this sequel since I felt like it was open-ended in the first book. It felt somehow unrealistic that she would want to completely leave her family for her life as a pirate, but it was ultimately resolved in the end.
My main complaint was that I could barely tell what was happening at all times. I said this in my review for the first review, but I didn’t understand the various sci-fi terms used and it was difficult for me to pay attention because I wasn’t engaged.
Overall, this was a strong, action-packed sequel with a perfect blend of humour and romance, but there was just something that fell flat for me.
April 14, 2023
This series was so fucking fun. I love lesbian pirates. I love when lesbians are angry and messy and yearn for each other.
I read this book during the time when I was first discovering sapphic books, and it filled me with that exhilarating pride that comes from seeing myself represented. So this book will always have my heart; I'll never forget that feeling.
I read this book during the time when I was first discovering sapphic books, and it filled me with that exhilarating pride that comes from seeing myself represented. So this book will always have my heart; I'll never forget that feeling.
July 21, 2017
CAS.....SWIFT..........I'M DEAD
October 13, 2018
Ahhhhhhhhh, I love this series!!! These characters own my heart! Can I just flail?! I LOVE CAS AND SWIFT WITH ALL MY HEART!!!
THINGS I LOVED
- The plot was fast paced and action packed! And just interesting and good! And exciting! And kept me on the edge of my seat!And why am I writing reviews while half asleep?!
- The sea monsters were COOL! And speaking of sea monsters, BAO!! I LOVE BAO! Bao is a baby sea monster and he's huge and monstrous, and basically the cutes thing EVER. I love Bao. He is precious. And Cas's relationship with him! 😂 She's constantly insulting him and complains about him all the time, but really she actually loves him, and it's so funny and sweet!
- THE CHARACTERS!!! Cas is great! She's just... a really compelling main character? You can't help but root for her! And I just wanted her to be HAPPY, and for so much of the book she ISN'T and it caused me PAIN.
- AND SWIFT! OH MY GOSH SWIFT! SWIFT IS AMAZING!!!! I LOVE THIS GIRL WITH ALL OF MY HEART!!! AKJHDJKJHHGGDGHJGHFGFHGGG!!!!
- THE ROMANCE!!!!! Cas and Swift are just PERFECT for each other, and there's so much angst and tension, but not BAD angst and tension, REALLY, REALLY GOOD ANGST AND TENSION! AND IT'S AMAZING! AND SO SO PAINFUL! BUT SO AMAZING!!! AHHHHH I LOVE THESE TWO AND I SHIP THEM SOOOOO MUCH!!!!
- It was just a super satisfying conclusion! It tied up all the threads, and it made me feel things, and I loved it!
THINGS I DISLIKED
- I would have liked a bit more world building? I mean, it was fine, there was some, and it was good enough, I just would have liked to know a but more?
- At times I would just find my attention wandering? And I had this problem with the first book too, so I think it was more than just my mood. Like, for 99% of the book I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN, but every once and a while there would be a lull, and all of a sudden I was totally uninterested. And it was truly just a *tiny* fraction of the book, but it WAS there.
Overall? This book was SO GOOD!! Maybe not *quite* as good as book one, but it's close! And I absolutely one hundred percent recommend this duology! Seriously, if you haven't yet, you NEED to go read this! AMAZING!
THINGS I LOVED
- The plot was fast paced and action packed! And just interesting and good! And exciting! And kept me on the edge of my seat!
- The sea monsters were COOL! And speaking of sea monsters, BAO!! I LOVE BAO! Bao is a baby sea monster and he's huge and monstrous, and basically the cutes thing EVER. I love Bao. He is precious. And Cas's relationship with him! 😂 She's constantly insulting him and complains about him all the time, but really she actually loves him, and it's so funny and sweet!
- THE CHARACTERS!!! Cas is great! She's just... a really compelling main character? You can't help but root for her! And I just wanted her to be HAPPY, and for so much of the book she ISN'T and it caused me PAIN.
- AND SWIFT! OH MY GOSH SWIFT! SWIFT IS AMAZING!!!! I LOVE THIS GIRL WITH ALL OF MY HEART!!! AKJHDJKJHHGGDGHJGHFGFHGGG!!!!
- THE ROMANCE!!!!! Cas and Swift are just PERFECT for each other, and there's so much angst and tension, but not BAD angst and tension, REALLY, REALLY GOOD ANGST AND TENSION! AND IT'S AMAZING! AND SO SO PAINFUL! BUT SO AMAZING!!! AHHHHH I LOVE THESE TWO AND I SHIP THEM SOOOOO MUCH!!!!
- It was just a super satisfying conclusion! It tied up all the threads, and it made me feel things, and I loved it!
THINGS I DISLIKED
- I would have liked a bit more world building? I mean, it was fine, there was some, and it was good enough, I just would have liked to know a but more?
- At times I would just find my attention wandering? And I had this problem with the first book too, so I think it was more than just my mood. Like, for 99% of the book I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN, but every once and a while there would be a lull, and all of a sudden I was totally uninterested. And it was truly just a *tiny* fraction of the book, but it WAS there.
Overall? This book was SO GOOD!! Maybe not *quite* as good as book one, but it's close! And I absolutely one hundred percent recommend this duology! Seriously, if you haven't yet, you NEED to go read this! AMAZING!
February 2, 2018
3/4 stars. i don't think this book was as good as the first. honestly, i think the first would have been stronger as a standalone
cass as a main character got on my nerves more in this one. i was expecting SOME development in the way of her realizing the pirates' way of life is a necessity caused by economic inequality so extreme it necessitates a whole city to be built literally on a floating raft, but she just stayed feeling superior despite the evidence literally all around her
also it uses the 'protagonist blacks out in the middle of the big battle and wakes up after it's all over' trope (that's used so often in ya and that i hate SO much bc its just LAZY!) like 2 different times.
i would REALLY love to read a spinoff or 2 about santa elena and her son
cass as a main character got on my nerves more in this one. i was expecting SOME development in the way of her realizing the pirates' way of life is a necessity caused by economic inequality so extreme it necessitates a whole city to be built literally on a floating raft, but she just stayed feeling superior despite the evidence literally all around her
also it uses the 'protagonist blacks out in the middle of the big battle and wakes up after it's all over' trope (that's used so often in ya and that i hate SO much bc its just LAZY!) like 2 different times.
i would REALLY love to read a spinoff or 2 about santa elena and her son
January 30, 2018
I loved this book. It was a great sequel and a good conclusion.
I will forever love Swift & Cas.
And Bao!!!
Full review soon.
I will forever love Swift & Cas.
And Bao!!!
Full review soon.
June 5, 2017
This duology is unreasonably wonderful. I
wish there was more or that the books had been longer and more fleshed out. I want more about pretty much every character. An excellent story and a romance that stabbed me in the feels. Highly recommended.
wish there was more or that the books had been longer and more fleshed out. I want more about pretty much every character. An excellent story and a romance that stabbed me in the feels. Highly recommended.
April 13, 2018
Perfect *-*
June 27, 2017
WOW everything about this book?? listen i'm not one for angst and shit but this was handled just SO well and its such a natural continuation from tasu that manages to raise the stakes and get me somehow even more invested in the characters than i already was?? which was a LOT let me tell u. nothing is ever easy, or straightforward, or black and white. all i can really say is that i teared up when i got to "the end" and put the book down... i will really truly miss cas and swift and the minnow and the world they live in and i can't wait to reread these books sometime soon and fall in love with them all over again. didn't mean to get sappy here but skrutskie really did give us something good, she gave me something good, and i'm gonna hold onto it for a long time.
July 24, 2018
4.5 stars
I enjoyed the first book, but this one is SO GOOD
I enjoyed the first book, but this one is SO GOOD
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