The second book in a series is a test of an author's instincts. Avoiding an expositional infodump in the first few chapters can leave new readers who've picked up the book by chance feeling bewildered and out of their depth. On the other hand, recapping at any length will test the patience of those returning to the series. Eking out the background info in a way that gives new readers what they need while not dulling the experience of old hands is a skill. Fortunately, it's one that J. Von Swan has. Many of the details and incidents in GHOST OF KOTOAMA: The Wolf of Vanaheim (Book 2) rely on what's happened before, and yet it's perfectly possible to read it as a standalone novel. Von Swan lets you know what you need to.

The novel opens with an action sequence that ties into the prospect of future war facing Vanaheim, and protagonist Baldur is soon alerted to the assassination of one of the traitors from a past encounter. Furthermore, the assassin appears to be someone believed dead, someone of emotional significance to Baldur, and someone who is central to the events of the previous book: "he hit play again. And again. Four times in total, as if repetition might make it less impossible. But every time, the same message. The same pleading. Syn. Alive. The name pulsed in his mind like a heartbeat." The significance is not lost, even for those who don't know the details, but the information is not overplayed. An elegant solution to the issue of juggling new and old readers.

From there, the action unfolds at a solid pace. There's a fair amount of planet-hopping, from the Viking-inspired Vanaheim to the Imperial Japan-flavored Kotoama. These reference points seem odd in a universe that makes no mention of civilization springing forth from Earth, but they do provide a convenient shorthand for conveying the character of these societies. A detour into an unrelated conflict when on the run from Kotoama feels superfluous, although it's clear that seeds are being sown for future installments.

While the action comes thick and fast, and the stakes are high, Von Swan is capable of throwing in lighter moments to stave off unnecessary portentousness. He's also adept with small moments like this: "Jingu adjusted a trim wheel without looking, thumb working against the knurled metal in a small, unconscious circle. Syn had done the same thing as if it was nervous energy looking for a home. He realized he was staring and looked away." It's a telling and strikingly visual moment that manages to highlight the emotion without even mentioning it.

Von Swan is a skilled writer who's crafting the sort of sci-fi that deserves to be discovered. Also, there's a talking bear. What's not to love?

Well-crafted worldbuilding, a strong feel for action, and engaging characters make J. Von Swan's GHOST OF KOTOAMA: The Wolf of Vanaheim (Book 2) a thrilling read.

~James Kinsley for IndieReader