a fantastic sequel that lives up to the heights of the first book.

robert jackson bennett has quickly become a standout author for me; i loved the tainted cup, and the founders trilogy is some incredible fantasy writing. i was so excited to read this sequel, and it lives up to the first book.

we're back with din and ana, this time in yarrowdale, a canton of the empire that din and ana serve. there, din and ana are faced with an impossible mystery, and as they start to unravel it, they start to reveal a dangerous conspiracy that involves the shroud, an all-secret compound that the empire relies on. the plot is fantastic; in the first book, there were times where i was confused and befuddled, but i was able to follow the plot of this book completely. there were moments where i was shocked; that ending was so unexpected. this book definitely dives more into the leviathans and the magic, and i liked the worldbuilding with the shroud. the politics of this book were engrossing, especially with yarrowdale not formally being in the empire.

the characters are enjoyable as always; din and ana's dynamic is such a fun one and you can really see how their relationship has grown from the first book. i loved seeing din as well; his struggles with staying in his position were realistic. kepheus mention we cheered! ik he'll be back in the next book. i also loved some of the new characters, especially malo. her quips and dialogue were enjoyable to read, and i loved her relationship with din, with her teasing him. malo was funny asf she had me laughing. thelanai was a very complex character as well; her arc is engrossing and a bit sad, but i think it's well-executed. 

honestly i think i like a drop of corruption more than the first book! one of the best books i've read this year. if you're a fan of fantasy, mystery, and robert jackson bennett, this book is a must-read.