It was really nice to read a story in this world from the other side of the Raybearer/Anointed Ones circle. Seeing how their actions have affected the wider populace up close and the continuation of their stories from afar was a great way to continue the series. 

My one gripe, which is why I couldn’t give such a strong book a full 5 stars, was Sade’s last big blow-up at the Croc. It was one step too far for me. By this point in the story, they had both already done the hard work of beginning understanding each other and growing from it. Yes, there was more work to do, but they were getting there in a mature and realistic way. 

For him to have kept this secret from Sade, and for her to make such a big deal of it, felt immature and 'just for the plot', rather than being an authentic conflict. It was also a stupid reason for them to break off their friendship for a whole YEAR. The idea of them being apart for that long is in no means bad, it’s probably the best thing they could have done in their circumstance, but it really didn’t need to be on such bad terms. 

However, apart from that, their relationship was really lovely. In fact, all the relationships in this book were. They weren’t perfect, and they had heart, just like in real life. An authentic and heartfelt read throughout (apart from that one gripe).