Calico Descending by Keri Lake is the second installment in the Calico series, a dark, dystopian romance that delves deep into the themes of power, resistance, and survival. Following on from Calico Ghost Town, this sequel escalates the stakes and tension, presenting a narrative that is both gripping and thought-provoking. Lake’s unique blend of gritty dystopian settings with complex romantic entanglements makes this series stand out in a crowded genre.

The story picks up where the first book left off, thrusting the reader straight back into the tumultuous world of Juliette, a resilient young woman ensnared in a deadly game controlled by the powerful and sadistic villain, Dred. As Juliette fights to navigate this perilous territory, her characters' depth and complexity unravel, showcasing Lake's skill in character development. The emotional currents running through the storyline add a rich layer to the already intense narrative.

One cannot discuss Calico Descending without applauding Keri Lake’s lush, evocative prose. Lake's writing style is vivid with imagery that almost borders the cinematic. This quality absorbs the reader wholly, crafting scenes that linger in the mind long after the book is closed. From the desolate landscapes of a wrecked civilization to the palpable tension of covert rebel operations, Lake’s descriptions are meticulous and atmospheric, setting the perfect backdrop for her dark tale.

The progression of Juliette’s character arc is a standout element. From her beginnings as a somewhat naive survivor in the first book, Juliette blossoms into a fierce leader, her motivations and actions shaped by past traumas and the relentless desire to dismantle the oppressive regime ruling her world. This evolution is painted with stark realism, attributed to Lake's mastery in weaving emotional depth into her characters, making Juliette not just a symbol of resistance but a believable and relatable figure.

The development of other characters also deserves mention. Each supporting character is carefully crafted, with backstories that interlock with the main narrative in meaningful ways. Whether allies or adversaries, their interactions with Juliette provide a gamut of emotional, ethical, and tactical challenges, enriching the story and driving the plot dynamically forward. The romantic subplot, although secondary to the main crisis, weaves seamlessly into the larger narrative, adding a tender contrast to the overarching theme of war and survival.

The plot of Calico Descending is meticulously plotted, with twists and turns that are unpredictable yet plausible within the story’s framework. Lake demonstrates an adept handling of pace, balancing slower, introspective segments with high-octane action sequences that keep the reader on edge. Moreover, the integration of political intrigue and moral dilemmas adds layers to the conflict, introducing gray areas that challenge the characters and reader alike.

However, Calico Descending is not a book for the faint-hearted. Its dark themes, explicit scenes of violence, and the occasionally overwhelming sense of despair might not sit well with every reader. The emotional intensity, while a testament to effective storytelling, can also feel heavy, particularly in sections where characters undergo extreme distress or moral confrontation.

In conclusion, Calico Descending by Keri Lake is a compelling sequel that escalates everything from its predecessor—from stakes and tension to character development and thematic depth. This book solidifies the Calico series as a significant work within the dark dystopian genre, merging action and emotion into a narrative that captivates and challenges. Ideal for readers who enjoy gritty, substantial stories that provoke thought as much as they entertain, this installment is a testament to Lake's prowess and her ability to craft vibrant, enduring tales in a dystopian setting. Nonetheless, its intensity and dark themes may require readers to brace themselves for a deeply stirring journey.