A gripping sequel forged in darkness and fire.
Feature image credit: Sophie Haeder
Sophie Haeder’s The Lurking Demon returns readers to Dohva 20 years after the events of The Land Within and it does so with the confidence of an author who has settled fully into her world and her voice. This second volume in the Triarcane Isles trilogy is darker, more emotionally complex and far more ambitious. It retains the qualities that made the first book so compelling. Haeder delivers immersive worldbuilding, beautiful descriptive writing, and a protagonist who moves through the story with both strength and vulnerability.
The prose is one of the greatest pleasures in this novel. Haeder writes with clarity and visual richness. Storms feel alive, shadows seem to breathe, and the caverns of the Dark Kingdom carry a sense of old stone, damp air, and quiet terror. Her language remains crisp and controlled. She avoids the common fantasy problem of heavy exposition and instead creates a story that moves with intention. Dialogue is clear and natural. The balance between dramatic action and quiet introspection is handled with skill. Readers who enjoyed the emotional depth and vivid imagery of The Land Within will find the same strengths here, presented with even more precision.
Avala provides the emotional anchor of the story. She is older and more scarred than she was in the first book. Her confrontation with Agthod and her forced descent into the Abyss push her to face the darker truths within herself. Haeder lets her struggle with anger and grief without ever losing sight of her resilience. Sineth and Kima develop into fully realised characters instead of playing supporting roles. Their journey into the Dark Kingdom and their search for Magnus deepen their relationships and test their loyalties. Even the followers of Agthod feel believable. Their motivations often come from fear or desperation rather than mindless devotion, which gives the conflict weight and consequence.
The world of Dohva expands beautifully. Haeder contrasts the claustrophobic darkness of the underground tunnels with the luminous majesty of Undarath, the home of the Golden Council. The result is a setting that feels large, living, and constantly under pressure. Landscapes, weather, and magic all contribute to the emotional tone of the story. Haeder writes a world that feels lived in rather than merely described.
Although this book can stand on its own, it is clearly designed as a true continuation of The Land Within. The themes of grief, rebirth, legacy and responsibility deepen. The 20-year time gap allows Haeder to explore how trauma shapes the longer arc of a life. Friendships shift and settle, myths change shape, and past choices gain sharper edges. This history enriches every scene.
The physical reading experience is also excellent. The white paper, generous line spacing, and comfortable print size make the book easy to read for long stretches.
The Lurking Demon is a powerful and rewarding sequel. It honours the spirit of The Land Within while raising the emotional and narrative stakes. I look forward to reading the final volume, which I am positive will be memorable and perhaps cathartic.
Reviewed by Leanne Caune
The views expressed in this review belong to the author and not Glam Adelaide, its affiliates, or employees.
Distributed by: Sophie Haeder
Released: January 2026
RRP: $30.79
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