Honestly until I went to review this I had no idea this was a sequel novel. Nowhere on the book did it say this belonged in a series as I was reading I couldn't shake the feeling I was reading a sequel. I don't like to research too much too avoid spoilers but I thoroughly checked the book and no where did it mention this was in a series. 
That being said it was a really good book I didn't even need to read the first one (but I will) to understand what was going on. However this book felt more "for the boys" than a general audience. Colby is kind of an annoying character and the female representation felt very male lense. I enjoyed the read but definitely is not on my favorite list.