Book 2 in EJ Noyes’s Halcyon series picks up directly from where book 1 finishes, deepening and extending the story and taking the reader on an even more fun journey than book 1. The story wonderfully draws and develops Lexi and Sophia's relationship. Until that is, Lexi receives deeply disturbing news requiring her to leave the country for an extended period of time. The narrative explores what it means to be in a relationship and the responsibilities that come with it towards one's partner. How difficult long-distance relationships can be for the one left behind, with all the worries and concerns that entails when your partner is away in a strange land. And we also get to see just how hard it is to leave that special someone behind for what seems like an eternity. Don’t worry, although Lexi and Sophia may be physically apart for a good part of this story, but that does not mean that they don’t share plenty of page time together. Outside of the romance plot, this Halcyon series is a joy. There are more layers and complexities added to the story after the establishment and setup in Book 1. Halcyon Leverage is more than a worthy sequel, it surpasses the first book in the series and is a very solid five stars for me. I can’t wait for book 3, due for release in the spring next year… Which is far too long a break to have to wait to see what will befall Lexi and Sophia!