This is the second story in the YA dystopian sci-fi series The Tribe, by Australian Indigenous author Ambelin Kwaymullina of the Palyku people of the Pilbara.

The book begins with Ashala recovering from the events of the precious book and having fled the tribe to run with her wolf-pack. She then discovers her friend and tribe member Ember Crow has disappeared to Gull City and not returned. Ashala embarks on a hazardous mission to rescue Ember, while battling with her own faulty sleepwalking ability.

The story is again action packed and features twists and challenges. Ashala grows as a leader, fuelled by her passionate love for her tribe. I loved the references to Aboriginal spirituality and history, with the Stolen Generations overtones and abilities that connect with Indigenous stories. I found I was slightly less engaged than in the first book and my one issue would be why would you use a Canadian audio-narrator for this story when you could use an Australian Indigenous one? Personally I would love to hear Shareena Clanton read this. Overall another great read. ( )

I like this series a lot - it has strong visions of dystopia, consequences and human nature, it has protagonists who choose their own destinies (and are stronger for it) and with this installment it really built out on its world in fascinating, unexpected and yet totally supported ways. That said, this one was a little middle-book-ish, a little weighed down with dealing-with-consequences and setting-things-up. But it didn't let all that get the better of it, and I look forward to more of the series. ( )

Surprising plot, likable characters, themes pertinent to the environment, indigenous cultures, teens, and family. Kwaymullina grows in her writing as her characters grow and learn. I can't wait for the third in the Tribe series, and I hope the author continues to write in this vein. ( )