King of Fools (The Shadow Game #2) by Amanda Foody

ARC received from Netgalley for a fair review.
Publish date: April 30, 2019

With the shadow game over, Enne & Levi are both wanted for murder. Now they must not only survive not getting caught, but they need to build (or rebuild) successful gangs on the north side of New Reynes. Gambling with everything they have may bring on their downfall, but may also gain them freedom from the one who basically owns them.

The Story

I was so happy to be in this world! I love how the story has become so much more than just a hunt for someone. It has become a story of becoming someone and survival, and what each person is willing to do, sacrifice or gamble for their goals. As the story continues we get a glimpse on the power dynamic as it unfolds. I really enjoy seeing the power shift as each character makes their move in this game that has no real rules. You are sort of left at the edge of your seat trying to figure out if someone is gong to stab you in the back or if someone is going to pull through.

There is a little bit more romance in this book, and at times I was rooting for the characters, and other times I was shouting at them that they can do so much better and just. get. over. it! But what can you do? The heart wants what it wants.

I think it should be stated as a trigger warning for drug addiction and physical abuse/trauma, as it does play a role throughout the story. Along with obviously gambling.

The World building

As the story continues, Amanda brings us into the darker world and folklore surrounding the city of New Reynes. I loved how each chapter opened up with a bit of story that helps develop the city and how the story is driven. There was one bit at the end that I was confused about the magic that was happening, and I think maybe I probably missed something? Like who is this person..and what is this power? Maybe it’s explained in the next book.

I loved how we got to see a little bit more of the South side of the city as well as the North. A little bit more on how the gangs operate and the political goings on and how they intertwine.

The Characters

So many new great characters in this book! Along with the return of some of our faves from the first book there is quite a bit of shuffling between the POV’s. I really enjoyed getting to know Jack and getting more of his story unfolding, and knowing his dark history. He is such a precious character and I just love him to pieces. As much as I loved the idea of a girl gang, I honestly thought I would see a little bit more from them. The most we heard of the girl gang was when they were sitting around their house, not actually getting anything done. It was merely an idea that was planted, and stuck through the story, yet didn’t have a lot going on for the story. I really hope they get a little more action going in the next book.

The Soundtrack

Panic at the Disco – High Hopes