Until I Die (Revenants, #2) Summary & Key Insights

Amy Plum's 'Until I Die' continues the dark, romantic saga of the Revenants, immortal beings bound to serve the mysterious organization known as the Order. Picking up where 'The Last Fallen Star' left off, the story centers on the complex relationship between Riley, a human girl unexpectedly drawn into the Revenants' world, and Raven Moretti, a powerful and brooding Revenant.

The main plot revolves around the escalating conflict between the Order and a newly emerged faction of rogue Revenants – the Crimson Hand – led by the malevolent and ambitious Lucian. Lucian seeks to shatter the delicate balance of power that the Order has maintained for centuries, aiming to unleash the destructive potential of a powerful artifact known as the Obsidian Heart. This artifact, capable of wiping out humanity, is a central object of both the Order's and the Crimson Hand's desires.

Riley, now deeply involved in the Revenants' world, finds herself increasingly entangled in their battles. Her unique connection to the Revenants, especially Raven, becomes a crucial element in determining the fate of both sides. Raven, grappling with his own complicated past and the restrictions of his immortality, struggles to protect Riley while simultaneously navigating his loyalty to the Order and his burgeoning feelings for her. Their relationship is tested by betrayal, loss, and the ever-present threat of death, adding a layer of emotional depth to the high-stakes action.

Other key characters play crucial roles: the enigmatic and powerful leader of the Order, Dr. Aris Thorne, continues to manipulate events from the shadows; Dashiell, Raven’s loyal, if volatile, brother; and a network of other Revenants whose allegiances shift constantly. The secondary characters showcase the complex dynamics within the Order and the broader spectrum of Revenant society.

The overarching theme of 'Until I Die' is the struggle between free will and destiny. The Revenants, bound by their immortality and the Order’s control, constantly grapple with their predetermined roles. Riley, as a human caught in their world, represents the potential for change and rebellion. The question of whether love and loyalty can transcend the limitations of immortality, especially amidst a backdrop of violent conflict, underpins the entire narrative.

The narrative progresses through perilous missions, betrayals, and heart-wrenching sacrifices, constantly raising the stakes. The plot twists and turns, keeping the reader guessing until the climactic confrontation with Lucian and the Crimson Hand. The book ends on a cliffhanger, leaving the fate of both Riley and the Revenants hanging in the balance, setting the stage for the next installment in the series.