CITY OF MASKS

In Harkness’ YA fantasy sequel, a young man continues working as a demon killer as new threats appear from within the kingdom’s walls.

Garet, a “demonbane” who protects his city from supernatural threats, is back in this second series installment, following City of Demons (2012). The teenager, now respected within the city of Shirath despite his status as an outsider from the Midlands, has taken to the banehall library to try and discover why the Caller—a powerful demon who “could hide its own and other demons’ projections of fear”—suddenly appeared last year for the first time in 600 years. It was defeated, at great cost, but an overall increase in demon attacks has put everyone in the city on edge. Soon, Garet and the banes discover that demons aren’t the only thing threatening their existence: A group of mysterious, masked demon killers has infiltrated Shirath, determined to usurp the banehall, thus putting the whole city in danger. The masks, made from silkstone, the “only thing that stops demon fear,” are also being used to create “half-banes” who can be controlled by others. As Garet learns the truth behind these new threats with the help of his good friend (and potential love interest) Salick, he must join forces with a surprising ally to save the kingdom. Harkness continues to show great skill at building a world that’s both fantastical and impressively immersive. Naturalistic dialogue, fully fleshed-out characters, and Harkness’s novel version of demons make for a quick and compelling read: “one shadow seemed to separate from the others. It became more than shadow. The flickering light illuminated a long, beak-like mouth that split open to display rows of sharp teeth and a questing tongue.” A cliffhanger ending will have readers looking forward to Garet’s future adventures.

Top-notch action and a colorful cast make for a thrilling new series entry.