It was okay but it didn't live up to the first book like I would've hoped. I was happy to visit this world again and I was so excited to meet Nikolai. However, I didn't care for Mal and Alina was getting super annoying. Also, this pacing was weird. It had its fast paced moments but for the most part, it was a snails pace and I was so bored. I probably would have DNF'D but I want to complete the trilogy.