A solid sequel. I found some parts a bit repetitive of the first book, but I loved the drama, the action, and the character building in this instalment.

I found myself connecting more with the characters and truly getting to know them more throughout this book, and I'd definitely say this one is very much character-driven, rather than plot-/world-driven like the first. The soft moments between characters really helped me care about them and build them up more. The relationship development was super well done, and I grew to love these characters way more through this story.

The convergence at the end was epic and very reminiscent of a C-Drama, and I couldn't look away. It all comes to a head so well and I never felt like there needed to be more or less. This story as perfectly made to be a duology and I loved how all the history and all that character development and world building is woven together so well by the end.

This is definitely my favourite book by Amelie Wen Zhao so far. Excited to see what her recently announced series will do.

TW: war, blood, injury detail, fire, torture, violence, death; mentions kidnapping, death of a parent

Plot: 4/5
Characters: 5/5
World Building: 5/5
Writing: 4.5/5
Pacing: 4.5/5
Overall: 4.5/5

ARC obtained via NYCC 2023 via Penguin Random House in exchange for an honest review.