First off, this book is not as it seems. Just when you think you know where this book is going to go it directs you into this whirlwind of secrets.

First off, finding out that Calaena is Fae was downright shocking. Totally unexpected. Chaol being pretty clever and starting a complete uprising was interesting. Dorian wielding magic was also shocking. Finding out that his father wields magic was shocking but they hinted at it earlier in the book. Calaena believing that the King's rise to power was too fast. Also, the death of Nehemia, my favorite character, was so unfair. Nehemia's character was so knowledgeable and valued Calaena's friendship. The loss of Nehemia as Calaena's friend is the devastating part of her death because Nehemia knows of Calaena's lineage but still befriended her. It is unlikely that Nehemia used Calaena because I don't think that Nehemia believed she could get Calaena to fight for Eyllwe. Calaena has shown selfishness in the past but Nehemia still saw good in her and remained her friend. Of course, Nehemia keeping secrets from Calaena about the secret organization that she founded wasn't ideal but again Calaena refused to put her neck out for people trying to overthrow the King. Also, Archer, how Archer played with people was downright cruel. When he confessed about organizing Nehemia's death, I was just as angry as Calaena. I thought for a second she was going to let Archer go but when she finally killed him, I was so glad. Honestly, I don't know where I stand with Chaol and Calaena becoming a couple from the beginning. The moment they started their relationship, I had doubts, and now they're more of a mess than in the first book. However, when their relationship started, I was happy for Calaena because they genuinely loved each other and I like seeing female leads happy. But with Chaol's neverending sense of duty, he didn't tell Calaena anything regarding her best friend.

The book is so good, well written, well thought out plot. This series is addicting. I realize how this series became a hit.