No, I didn't take a break before reading this. Even though, after binge reading the first 3 books I swore I would. 
 What can I say, I am weak. 
 And this series is just that good. 
 I don't know how Rhodes does it, but every book is better than the last. 
 "Because if you don't choose to fight against the wrong in the world, then you are the wrong in the world." 
 I don't know how Rhodes manages to keep introducing more characters that I love, but she does. Her character depth is glorious and I just keep falling for these characters. 
 I also love how she writes characters that are not black and white. Good characters are not always exhibiting angelic behaviour and the supposed evil characters aren't always heinous. She gives us back stories that explain characters actions and, while it doesn't excuse certain behaviour, it makes us understand the characters. 
 She doesn't just blur the lines of good and evil, she decimates it. 
 The plot thickens as the Empire of Kraeshia joins the play for power. 
 Cleo is just as fierce and determined, using every possible tool and opportunity that presents itself to gain just an inch in the journey to reclaim her throne. Snarky, kind, vulnerable. 
 Magnus, oh Magnus. Quite a bit of growth in this book as he realises who he can become if he allows it. Still the same vicious tongued Prince as always, it seemed impossible but my love for him has grown! 
 Poor Jonas undergoes many hardships in this book, he stays true to who he is throughout. 
 Little Lucia grows into her power in this book and goes down an unextpectedly dark path. She is one of the characters I have mixed feelings about and her story here didn't make them any clearer.... 
 And all I will say about her - Amara is one crazy, determined bitch. 
 Then the shipping......... (view spoiler)[Yay!!! Magnus' last chapeter and the Cleo's had me dancing around in joy!! Took long enough, but damn well worth the wait!! (hide spoiler)] 
 Thank you Morgan Rhodes, for giving me the first book hangover I have had in ages 
 *said only half sarcastically.