Oh, so this series is going to hurt me, I guess.

Really liked this one, which introduces more characters and includes more worldbuilding, giving the reader some idea of what state alchemists do and why some people have compelling reasons to hate them. I already found the elements of moral ambiguity interesting, because I like reading about characters with troubled pasts and some chaotic good tendencies, and the context of the civil war adds more moral gray area and conflict.

Also, the subplot with Nina and Alexander is horrible and executed so well. I love/hate when I'm enjoying characters and realize that something bad is going to happen to them, but I've been lulled by the author and they've pulled me in too deep to back out.