We return to the Court of the Erlking and to Serilda, trapped behind the veil and set to become the Alder Queen, the only way she can protect those she loves. Can she and Gild find a way to break the curse that binds them and restore lost memories to the world?

I actually enjoyed this book more than the first in the series. It seems to flow better as a continuing narrative, rather than the 'important scene... Time passes...' pattern of 'Gilded'. The plot strings all tie together nicely, and it just feels like there's more going on to keep your attention.

I really like Gild as a character; he's got a little bit of everything about him, and his personality really shines through in this book. I feel like I could actually imagine him into existence! Serilda I'm less attached to; she's a good main character and there's nothing 'wrong' with her, but when set next to Gild there just seems to be something lacking in her. Only when she gives the Erlking attitude does she really come alive for me. 

The worldbuilding is good too, although perhaps not as vivid as it could be in places. The belief system and the old Gods play an important role, and this is set out really well, as is the texture and haunting quality of the ghosts; I especially like the moments where Serilda hugs or holds hands with a ghost and, although it sends shivers down her spine, she is determined not to let her discomfort show for their sakes. It's little details like that that really sell the premise.

The ending did feel a little rushed to me; almost like the author had gotten so into her own story that she forgot about tieing up the fairy tale premise it's based on until the last second. I was hoping for one final twist or something as magical as the story, but it ended up being pretty much exactly what you'd expect. But it's not enough overall to spoil the book.

Looking forward to reading more by this author in  the future!