A good book, but I liked it a little less than I did part one (The bone doll's twin). I got thrown out of the narrative a few times, mostly when the story focused on Niryn or on descriptions. Fortunately, this didn't happen very often, but when it did, it reminded me that although the premise of this book is quite original, the world is not. As a matter of fact, the world is very standard and felt a bit like old-fashioned fantasy, and Niryn is incredibly uninspired. Which is a pity, since the other characters are at the least engaging, and at best quite interesting. I'm not only talking about Tobin and Ki, but also about King Erius and Korin, his son. Clearly, they end up across from Tobin at some point, but they had good points as well, and seemed human. Niryn on the other hand is just The Bad Guy. The Nefarious One. The Evil Wizard.

Fortunately, the books focuses on Tobin, and her development, which remains very well done. Tobin not only struggles with her gender, but also with the fact that she is supposed to take the throne from her uncle and cousin, whom she mostly likes. The book shows a bit more of the two wizards, Iya and Arkoniel as well. The distinction between the two is very well done, Arkoniel young, innovative and warm, Iya driven, but further removed from humanity.

Overall, this was still a very good book, and I'm looking forward to reading the next instalment. ( )

I can't adequately express how excited I am about this author and her vision for this incredible series that breaks through so many walls. Book number two only added fuel to the fire. ( )

Consider this to be a review of the three book series, as each book is fantastic, stands on its own, and seriously builds both world and story. Some really grim stuff in here, but absolutely worth every word. ( )

without reading the first book I was at loss about good and bad guys,girls but I caught on fairly quickly!! A fairly good read and I want to get #3. ( )

I have been trying and trying to read this book for five months and I keep coming up with excuses to do something else. I liked the first one all right, but I simply cannot find it in me to keep going. It's just that dull.