Rating: 4 out of 5.

This is a good second book in the trilogy, and focuses mainly on Marilia’s twin brother Annuweth. He is still bitter about the injuries he sustained, and about Marilia’s successes in the war. As Marilia tries to step back from warfare and power, Annueweth plots to grab it an any cost.

The war with Tyrace is over, however the peace they achieved is short-lived. Emperor Vergana decides to disinherit his true-born son, Rufyllys, in favor of his adopted child, Prince Ilruyn. As a result, the true colors of apparently “mild-mannered” Rufyllys come out and he and his conniving sister suck Annuweth into their plot to upset the Emperor’s plans and take the throne away from Prince Ilruyn. Annuweth, who is secretly having an affair with the Princess, lets his love her for and his sense of duty lead him astray as he helps plunge Navessea into civil war. Former comrades find themselves on opposite sides of the fight – including Marilia and Annuweth.

This book is well-written and the plot moves quickly, but I didn’t enjoy it as much as the first book. I think it’s because this book focuses more on Annueweth than Marilia (who has a much smaller part in this book), and I didn’t find Annueweth very compelling. He seems pretty dim and robotic in his actions. He can’t seem to think for himself and is easily led astray. Considering his upbringing, it didn’t seem realistic that he would be so naive in his dealings with people, particularly manipulative females. His inner conflict with the voices in his head seemed to drag on longer than necessary and it irritated me that he didn’t question other’s actions more. As sophisticated as Marilia is, it seemed like Annueweth is the complete opposite. I just didn’t find that realistic.

Even though I don’t like Annueweth as much as I like Marilia, the book is still a good read. It’s fast paced with plenty of action. The cliffhanger at the end is great and I can’t wait to see how this all ends.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book from Book Sirens. All opinions are my own.