Coming off of what I felt was an innovative magic system and interesting and compelling first entry in the series I did not expect this to live up to that same high standard. And while it did not, it was exactly where I had hoped it would be, and still a solid follow up with only a couple of points that didn't fit well with me. 
 The relationship is still uncomfortable, but the main character isn't developing, not growing at all. She still is ridiculously impulsive, and finds ways to lie to herself to justify her actions. It doesn't matter how dangerous things are, or who gets hurt, she will forever be able to convince herself that she did right. Ugh.