Howling Dark: The Sun Eater, Book Two
Book: Howling Dark is the second novel in Christopher Ruocchio’s Sun Eater series, following Hadrian Marlowe’s search for a way to make peace with the Cielcin. The trade paperback listing describes a space-opera and epic-fantasy story with a 688-page length.
At a glance
- Second book in the Sun Eater series, centered on Hadrian Marlowe’s search for the lost planet of Vorgossos.
- The listing describes a blend of space opera and epic fantasy, with alien contact and an effort to end a long war.
- Trade paperback listing specifies 688 pages.
Reference price: $26.00
Price checked: Nov 13, 2026
View offerAhead of Black FridayExplore the selectionOften bought together
Pros and cons
Pros
- A substantial installment for readers who want an extended, continuing science-fiction and fantasy story.
- The premise combines interstellar exploration, attempted diplomacy with the Cielcin, and conflict within Hadrian’s party.
Cons
- As Book Two, it continues an existing series rather than serving as a clearly identified standalone novel.
- The 688-page length calls for a longer reading commitment than a shorter novel.
Technical specifications
8 specifications| Publisher | DAW |
|---|---|
| Publication date | September 26, 2023 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 688 pages |
| Weight listed | 1.35 pounds |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 5.46 x 1.46 x 8.2 inches |
| ISBN-10 | 0756419271 |
|---|---|
| ISBN-13 | 978-0756419271 |
What to know before buying
Listing details to confirm
The listing’s description identifies this as the second novel and calls it a trade paperback, while separate publisher-page material describes a seventh and final series volume and a deluxe edition of Empire of Silence. Those details appear to refer to different books or editions, so confirm the selected format and title.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers following the Sun Eater series who want the next installment after Book One.
- Readers interested in lengthy space opera with epic-fantasy elements, alien diplomacy, and an ongoing war.
Less suited to
- Readers looking for a standalone entry or a short read.
- Readers who have not read the earlier Sun Eater story and prefer not to start mid-series.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
64% 64% - 4 stars
30% 30% - 3 stars
6% 6% - 2 stars
0% 0% - 1 star
0% 0%
Customer feedback is strongly favorable about the story, character development, writing, and readability, with readers also expressing interest in continuing the series. Pacing is the main mixed point: some report that the story gathers speed in the second half, while others find the opening slower. That distinction may matter in a lengthy 688-page installment, especially for readers expecting a quick start.
Positive themes
- Customers praise the engaging story and character development.
- Feedback highlights the writing and readability, with readers eager for the next installment.
Mixed feedback
- Pacing reactions differ, with some readers describing a slower first half and others noting a stronger second half.
Frequently asked questions
Is Howling Dark a standalone novel?
The listing identifies it as the second Sun Eater novel, so it is positioned as a series installment rather than a standalone.
What is the book about?
Hadrian Marlowe searches for the lost planet of Vorgossos and a path to peace with the Cielcin, while facing threats beyond the Sollan Empire.
How long is this edition?
The listing gives a print length of 688 pages and describes the book as a trade paperback.
Alternative options
Kingdoms of Death: The Sun Eater: Book Four
$9.75
Disquiet Gods: The Sun Eater: Book Six
$11.60
Ashes of Man: The Sun Eater: Book Five
$12.87
Shadows Upon Time: The Sun Eater: Book Seven
$17.50
The Lesser Devil (Sun Eater)
$10.99
Empire of Silence (Deluxe Hardcover): The Sun Eater: Book One
$23.40
Empire of the Vampire: Book One
$12.03
The Dregs of Empire: A Tale of the Sun Eater
$14.99
The Will of the Many (Hierarchy)
$10.08
Ironbound: (Ironbound, Book 1)
$18.60
Malice
$11.45
Red Rising
$9.97
