Ellie was trying to become a Goldwing and she wasn't going to let anyone or anything get in the way of that. Though there was danger and violence in Sparrow Rising, it was largely a book of light, of hope. But plans aren't foolproof, and a prophecy/vision given to Ellie about Nox has her trying to convince Nox to become more than he is.

He is going to free her from the prison where she's been held for years. He is going to make good on the promise he made to his mother. While Ellie doesn't have a specific plan on what to do next, Nox does. When his Goldwings cannot track down and capture Nox, the king brings in 'The Hunter' to do the job. Ellie, Nox, Twig, and Gussy are on the run (on the fly?), trying to evade the king, who is still determined to capture Nox. This book picks up right after the events of Sparrow Rising. I don't like it, Jessica Khoury! I mean, I do.

The tension she introduced was mere child's play compared to some of the events in this book. OMG! I thought Khoury played with my feelings in book 1. I loved this book so much! One of the best middle grade books! I can't wait for book three.after Nox rose out of his ashes!!!!!! Nox runs away from what he can solve or thinks he can do. How Ellie is willing to manipulate and lie to people to do the right thing because she wants the 'right thing' to happen. Both of them completely described each others' weaknesses and strengths. The argument Nox and Ellie had was admirable. I'm so glad that I finally know why this is called Skyborn, and the cool history with the floating sky and the mysterious gargols. This book showed how relationships and circumstances can change who you are and the choices you make. Their relationship was so hilarious and heart-warming. I loved how Nox had to find the faith and goodness inside him that had been there all along. Her character became much more fleshed-out. Ellie annoys me a bit from time to time, but I wasn't annoyed at all in this book. I was glad things were resolved with Zain and the plot twists were so cool! I already guessed that Nox was going to be a phoenix, but it's surprising that he is the intended heir to the throne of the land of the gargols (forgot the name.) Nox and Ellie. This allowed it to be way more complex and to delve into deeper topics. This book was absolutely wonderful! Every character went through character growths and their relationships became even better! I liked how this was more of a mature and darker middle grade, which made it even better. If there was more than 5 stars I'd give it that.

Skyborn sparrow rising book 2