The Deck of Omens (The Devouring Gray (2))

The sequel picks up following the harrowing events in The Devouring Gray as a new threat gathers in strength through a corruption spreading from the Gray and slowly devouring the forest as it makes its way into town. Two shocking returns come with surprising family secrets that could change everything for May, Justin, and Isaac. As the five teenagers uncover a startling secret from the past, they must come together to face their own abilities and battle against the Gray once and for all.

Christine Lynn Herman excels at building honest and real relationship dynamics which are explored as the group fights against the corruption. Isaac and Justin have gone through some rocky waters since Isaac’s confession, which finds the two embarking on separate journeys that could heal the rift between them. Violet and Harper are a sweet point in the story as their support and confidence in each other provide strong moments of female empowerment. The angsty dynamic between Harper and Justin is explored as they finally confront the friction and buried feelings between them. Herman weaves genuine struggles into the teenagers’ lives such as trauma, betrayal, and family. The Deck of Omens is a thrilling sequel that hits all the right notes to build a thrilling battle against the Gray with angsty romance, complicated family dynamics, healing friendships, and the complex struggle of personal healing.