Reviews

Actual rating is probably 3.5, but I gave it a higher score because I enjoyed Radu's story so much. If it had just been about him, his see-sawing emotions, the physical and mental trials he went through, I would be singing praises. Radu and his uncertain heart in Constantinople was absolutely excellent. Yes, as he got deeper involved with his mission, I had some serious questions about what he was doing, particularly because Mehmed wasn't exactly being his best in regards to Radu's emotions. But at least Radu felt guilt and shame about the things he was forced to do, making him a better, more relatable character that I wanted happiness for. Unfortunately, the other half of the book involved Lada as she fought to take back her throne by herself. To be honest, there were some points where I understood, sympathized, and even enjoyed her. But then I would get a serious case of whiplash because she would do or say something horrible almost immediately afterward. By the time I reached the end of the book, I was no longer able to see her as a dark character. She is a villain, and truly living up to her real life counterpart, Vlad Dracul. I also didn't find Lada's story as engaging. It wasn't bad, but there was so much more tension in Radu's half. The writing itself remains very solid and elegantly composed, and as with the first book, I really, really wish I could love it as much as everyone else does. I'm going to read the third book to see how it all ends, especially in regards to Radu and his story, but I honestly dread going through Lada's chapters.

sandygx260's review

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4.0

Not quite as "whoa" as the first novel, but I sense this is racing toward an epic ending in book 3.

aliciet's review

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5.0

esse livro me matou e me ressucitou de novo. PUTA QUE PARIU, QUE HISTÓRIA DA PORRA

ominouslilraven's review against another edition

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5.0

I LOVE LADA!! She is beyond fierce.

pixiepages's review

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5.0

Lada only gets more fierce with time. She will make Wallachia hers even if she kills everyone in her path. This book explained so much more and the character developed a lot in it. Another great book to the series.

abyssalhigh's review

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adventurous dark emotional tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

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