Whenever I am reading a series I always get that moment of worry that the next book in the series is going to suck.  And not because the first book in the series was bad, not because I have been given any indication that the next book will be bad, but because the first book I read in the series feels like it wrapped everything up in a neat little bow, and what else could the author possibly have to write about?  I was lucky enough to be a part of C. A. Campbell’s ARC team, so I got to read Dissent, the second book in the Heretics Saga in advance.  And book one of this series, wrapped up nice and neat.  Hence, my worry.

I was lucky enough to read these two books back to back, but C. A. Campbell thought ahead when she was writing Dissent.  A lot of times I catch authors writing a hand holding recap at the beginning of the next book in the series, and it slogs the book down because the author is trying to turn it into a plot point.  Not the case with this book.  Campbell did a really nice job of recapping the important things that had happened without it feeling like it was handholding.

And my worry above, that there wouldn’t be a plot for book two.  Completely unfounded!  Not only was there a plot, but it was a good plot that built upon the foundation that was laid in book 1.

Now, I like to be very honest with myself, even when it comes to the hard things.  Such as, loving a villain as terrible as Silas.  Because my god, he was such an awful and terrible character.  One of those characters that is written so well it doesn’t feel like there is a single redeeming thing about him.  Is he a family man who deeply loves his children?  Yes he is.  Does he also enjoy torturing, hurting, and maiming people with differing beliefs than his?  Yes he does!  Is there something deeply wrong with me for loving him as villain?  Yes.  Yes there is.  However, he is the best part of book two.  I love that there is not a single point where he is reduced to just being a villain.  He is intelligent, scheming, and has his kind moments too.  Do I ever want to meet him in person?  Not a chance.  Was I secretly rooting for him?  I can neither confirm nor deny.

Something I also really enjoyed about this book, (something that isn’t as concerning as my love for Silas) is how the characters evolve, especially Jacob.  Jacob goes from this party boy who doesn’t care about anything in book one, to this serious and thoughtful boy that is incredibly meticulous.  He plans, pays attention, and is willing to do the hard the things. 

There is one thing about this book that I did not like, and it was the introduction to the start of a love triangle.  I hate love triangles, and truly, truly, it serves not a single purpose in this book.  Shiloh and Jacob have declared they love each other and that they are willing to change the world so they can be together.  Do some things happen that forcibly keep them apart?  Yes.  Did we really need the introduction of a love triangle?  No.  Especially if it is not serving a real purpose other than adding in some angst.  

Overall – If you are an adult looking for a book that makes you feel like you did when you were still trying to conquer a math final, read this series.  And if you are a kid, a teenager, trying to figure out if you have any importance in this world, read this series.  It is not going to be the end all be all answers for you, but it is going to transport you to a world where you feel powerful, and it will give you a small sense of freedom while you read,

Plot – 10/10

Characters – 10/10

Originality –  10/10

General Joy of Reading – 10/10

Overall Score – 40/40

DISSENT: A Young Adult Dystopian Romance (The Heretics Saga Book 2 – C. A. Campbell

Cost* – eBook is $3.99.  This book will be published 11/8/2022.

*Cost is based upon what the book cost when book review is published