It’s the second book, but completely unrelated to the first one and can be read by itself.

WTWTB is alot lighter than TMCOAT, in tone, atmosphere and actual light levels. It’s set on a sunny archipelago where we follow a young musician trying to carve out her place in the world. The entire setting is very polynesian inspired, and if, like me, the only other polynesian tale you can think of is Moana, then tough luck not picturing Kaimana exactly like her.

There’s still quite some brutal slaughter in the story, but it’s quickly followed by warm fuzzy feelings of friendship. I found WTWTB more satisfying overall, cause it’s got the sort of ending I prefer, but TMCOAT was more mysterious and atmosferic.

The MC in WTWTB, Kaimana is a musician knack, so between that and my preconceived notions, this was totally a Tim Burton Disney musical thing in my head. I find BP’s world very easy to picture and stunning. 10/10 would visit if not for all the man eating monsters.

Gods also come into in this one. I’m a huge sucker for myths turning out to be real in stories, so I’m in love.

I looked over the other reviews and I got the impression that people considered the flaws of the first book to be improved in this one, so if you’re looking for something more polished maybe start here.