EDIT: Actually, I hated Gisbourne all the way through this time; no sympathy for abusers, which is also why I’m having doubts about Rob/Scar despite extenuating circumstances — they are addressed in-story, though, so that’s good. Still reserving judgment on the end twist because I have yet to read the last book: it’s up next.
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More lovely character development, including moments where I didn't hate Gisbourne. Rob still gloriously moody yet romantic; John and Much still lovable. Not sure how I feel about the

Spoiler

Coeur de Leon

development, though.