Review of Bones at the Crossroads (Blood at the Root, #2) by Jea Hawkins
When I first picked up Bones at the Crossroads, I didn’t just dive in—I took a deep breath, almost like I was preparing for a rollercoaster. After finishing Blood at the Root, I had a wishlist of hopes for this sequel, and I’m thrilled to say that Jea Hawkins not only addressed many of my concerns but also skyrocketed the series into a realm of depth and complexity I didn’t quite expect. It feels as though Hawkins took the feedback, rolled it into his magical cauldron, and created something both darker and richer.
From the get-go, Bones at the Crossroads unflinchingly explores themes of trauma, adultification of Black youths, and the struggle to navigate personal demons amidst a world that often feels bleak. Malik’s journey is raw; his anger and flaws are front and center, beautifully complementing the intense emotional landscape Hawkins has crafted. The inclusion of Malik seeking therapy is a refreshing and necessary element that provides a much-needed representation of vulnerability, especially for young readers grappling with their own emotional turmoil.
As for the stakes? They are alarmingly high. Where Blood at the Root had its moments of tension, this sequel wields a sharper blade with its darker undertones and a noticeably higher body count. It forces us to confront not only the fantastical elements of the story but also the traumatic experiences that resonate all too well in our reality. The violence is not gratuitous but significant, emphasizing the constant danger Malik faces in both his relationships and the magical world he navigates.
Hawkins’s prose has matured elegantly—gone are the rushed scenes that made the first book feel like a sprint through a lush landscape. This time, every word is chosen with care, and the worldbuilding feels fleshed out. I was particularly struck by the nuanced commentary on queer and trans identities within the Black community. Exploring intersections such as these enriches the narrative, making it more than just a story about magic; it’s a conversation about identity and belonging that had me reflecting on my own experiences.
While some fans will note the reduction of in-narration AAVE from Blood at the Root, I found that Hawkins still captures the spirit of the characters through their dialogue—yes, those emphatic "NOOOO!!!" moments are still there, mirroring the heart-pounding nature of their struggles. However, I must admit, I found myself rolling my eyes at some plot contrivances—like Malik’s procrastination over his love triangle while the clock ticked menacingly. Sometimes, the characters had me asking, “Why is this happening?” more often than I’d prefer. That said, these moments were small pieces in an otherwise beautifully intricate puzzle.
Some of my favorite highlights? The subtle humor that made me snort-laugh in public and the pointed critiques of Miller’s The Crucible—Hawkins’ insights are spot on and delivered with wit. One line that really resonated with me, “Mercury is retrograding the hell outta me right now,” perfectly encapsulated that feeling of being lost in chaos, relatable across so many contexts.
In conclusion, if you enjoyed Blood at the Root or are fascinated by narratives that center on the complexities of growing up Black and queer, then Bones at the Crossroads is a must-read. Hawkins has elevated his storytelling, balancing tough themes with moments of levity and insight. He’s definitely earned my anticipation for what lies ahead in this series. Overall, this sequel left me both challenged and hopeful, and I can’t wait to see where Malik’s journey takes him next. If you’re looking for a book that combines sharp social commentary with engaging fantasy, add this one to your reading list!
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