Full Metal Alchemist meets Chinese history (and mythology) in “The Blood Orchid,” the riveting sequel to Kylie Baker’s “The Scarlet Alchemist.”

It didn’t seem possible for the stakes to rise higher than in the first book, but Baker turns up the intensity, putting her characters through an even tougher ordeal. I often mention being on the edge of my seat or biting my nails in my reviews, but this time it was entirely true—“The Blood Orchid” kept me up past my bedtime because I just couldn’t put it down!

I did feel a bit let down that the beautiful romance that blossomed in “The Scarlet Alchemist” wasn’t as prominent in the sequel. While the shift makes sense for the story, I found myself missing the connection between Zilan and Hong. 

I received a digital ARC of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.