Rebel Angels

Goodreads Synopsis:    Ah, Christmas! Gemma Doyle is looking forward to a holiday from Spence Academy, spending time with her friends in the city, attending ritzy balls, and on a somber note, tending to her ailing father. As she prepares to ring in the New Year, 1896, a handsome young man, Lord Denby, has set his sights on Gemma, or so it seems. Yet amidst the distractions of London, Gemma's visions intensify. Visions of three girls dressed in white, to whom something horrific has happened, something only the realms can explain. . . . 
The lure is strong, and before long, Gemma, Felicity, and Ann are turning flowers into butterflies in the enchanted world of the realms that Gemma alone can bring them to. To the girl's great joy, their beloved Pippa is there as well, eager to complete their circle of friendship. 
But all is not well in the realms or out. The mysterious Kartik has reappeared, telling Gemma she must find the Temple and bind the magic, else great disaster will befall her. Gemma is willing to do his intrusive bidding, despite the dangers it brings, for it means she will meet up with her mother's greatest friend and now her foe, Circe. Until Circe is destroyed, Gemma cannot live out her destiny. But finding Circe proves a most perilous task.

My Thoughts:

-    This is a rare occurrence where I enjoyed the second book more than the first. I liked the first book a lot, but this one was a step up. 

-    This story is the perfect mash up of Victorian young ladies worried about their social standings and dangerous magical realms. It is so cleverly put together. I love it!

-    I was able to figure out certain plot points, but I was still intrigued and surprised. The story telling is really well done.

-    I love how vivid and visual this book is. It was so easy to get lost in Gemma's world.

-    The characters are all complex, and enjoy reading about each one. Felicity is such a brat and very annoying at times, but she has redeemable qualities, and Gemma really needs a go getter like her. I like quiet and uncertain Ann, but I wish her character could develop a bit more confidence.

-    This series is so underrated. It deserves more attention and love. I wish I hadn't waited so long to read these. 

Previous Gemma Doyle book

(cover is linked)