3.5 stars*

BETTER THAN THE FIRST.

I have figured out some issues I have with this book, which the book comments on itself. Go figure. INSTA-LOVE. How are you this madly in love with someone in a day? You even think you're crazy?! So while that's silly, there was more intrigue between the two.

In my heart of hearts, I know Gideon cares, even if he didn't mean to originally. This helps, because boy, he is MEAN. Gwen needs to put him in his place if you ask me. Maybe that'll be rectified in the next installment.

We all know the Count is evil, but can SOMEONE TELL ME WHAT THE SECRET IS? I figured I'd find out in this book, but I didn't. So now I'm waiting for the third book so I can understand. You only get the basest idea about where it's all going.

Xemerius is arguably the best part of the book. While Lesley is annoying and seems to know-it-all, Xemerius makes you love his sassy self.

My other big issue is you really don't get a feel for any characters. There's not enough back story that helps you love or hate them. Everyone is rather neutral, and rather vague, about everything.

True YA, with very very little language. No romantic scenes, just some kissing here and there. Minor violence.