3.5 stars.

Definitely a middle grade novel, definitely the second book in a trilogy. (In other words: not my preference, but not an automatic dealbreaker.) The developments are pretty predictable if you know Norse mythology, more history-repeating-itself than the modern reincarnations we got with PJO & HoO — less exciting, but well-told enough that it’s still a fun ride. Also, Alex Fierro might be my new favorite character ever.