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4.18 AVERAGE


4.5 stars.

This was even better than the first one! It definitely avoided second book syndrome. It was even more intense, political, mature, angsty, and exciting.

Elisa is still amazing, even more than in book one if that's possible. She has become so much more brave and confident, and she is really getting to know her powers. I've also come to really love Hector! He didn't really stand out to me in the first book, but now he's awesome. I am really looking forward to his role in the third book.

This book has threats emerging from all sides, and I neeeeed book three.

Oh! So good!

http://wordnerdy.blogspot.com/2012/09/2012-book-255.html
http://wordnerdy.blogspot.com/2013/05/2013-book-139.html
http://wordnerdy.blogspot.com/2014/11/2014-book-268.html
https://wordnerdy.blogspot.com/2020/02/2020-book-43.html

The second book in Carson's series involves more political maneuvering, a hint of romance, AND a mystical quest, plus it's way less fatphobic, so what's not to like? It’s a good second chapter—interesting on its own, not just setting up the pieces for a grand finale. Lots of moral conflict and adventure and friendship too. I am kind of over a lot of YA series, but still find this one satisfying.
adventurous mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

I read the first book in this series, [b:The Girl of Fire and Thorns|10429092|The Girl of Fire and Thorns (Fire and Thorns, #1)|Rae Carson|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1323448113s/10429092.jpg|13282366] several years ago, so when I began the second one, I was a bit fuzzy on the details. Nonetheless, the story managed to capture me much in the way the first did. Now that I'm older, several cliches have been delineated out for me. Of course, this is YA fiction after all, so it isn't like I was expecting something fully cynical (and I don't believe is it even possible for a story to be fully devoid of all things typical). Obviously, I didn't to learn some profound truth or gain a sagacious piece of insight, so this book managed to thoroughly fulfill its job: entertain me and make me feel.

It was pleasant reading this, although I could see where the novel was headed toward the end. All in all, I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for quality YA fantasy.
adventurous challenging emotional mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Loved it! Can't wait for the next one.
adventurous medium-paced
adventurous emotional medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

Probably more like 4.5 stars, but I'm rounding up. :) What a fantastic sequel -- just as intriguing as the first book. Loved the continued growth of the main character and can't wait for the next book!