This was a great sequel. The direction some of the characters went in was really different than in the first book, but as an overall arc it made sense and was really well done. The world-building is excellent and I had sympathy for the characters even when I didn’t really like them. The stakes of the book felt both like they’d impact the entire world of the book, and like they were incredibly personal to each character.

5/5 stars! I CANNOT with this book. I am SCREAMING! This book was utter perfection. I can't get over the laters of finesse and intricacy that took place throughout this book. I sadly couldn't finish it in one reading because it is a long, complex story. But I quickly finished it the next morning. Rhea and Lexos were both fully developed characters with their own hopes, dreams, and fears. I need more of them and more of this book. Everyone that enjoys heart-wrenching YA fantasy needs to pre-order this book immediately.

I received an advance review copy for free through NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

Holy moly brown cow and bright sun this was a PROPER sequel. Some overall mysteries were brought to light and I truly could not put this down,