Review: Great sequel
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 01 22, 2014
I was super excited to continue with this series, and it did not disappoint one bit. It was even more exciting and action-packed than the first book.I really loved seeing the changes in the characters. Sebastian seemed to have transformed in the blink of an eye. He was no longer the young Prince Heir first introduced in Sworn to Raise. His confidence had grown and he matured into a fair and noble prince who I could finally see as the hero of this story. Of course, Ciardis was still constantly getting into trouble or finding mischief. She was still battling with the control of her powers and it caused more harm than good.There was quite a bit of intrigue thrown into this story with the Duke of Cinnis out for blood, and the threat of war between humans and kith due to a strange being who controlled the shadows and so much more. The Shadowwalker was wicked and felt no mercy for those he slay. Even more intriguing was the sudden appearance of another Weathervane. Who was he? Why was he with the Shadowwalker? And then there was The Shadow Council. What was their purpose? And what did they want from Ciardis?It was really strange that Maree Amber suddenly took over Ciardis' training and then for her to send her off to the Ameles Forest, I had to wonder if it was just a way to get rid of her for a while, or if she really believed she served a purpose and could be of great help. The trip to and through the forest was a fantastic fantasy adventure that introduced a variety of strange and fascinating creatures. Some wild and vicious, and others a little more subdued.This was a wonderful story filled with mythical beings and plenty of mysticism. I enjoyed watching as Ciardis learned to wield her mage powers; how to manipulate them and use them for good, rather than causing the chaos she had in the Courts. The ending left me enthralled and I am eager to dive right into the next book.