Unlike the last book I understood it better. 
 Even though not much time has passed between the first book and this one there is a distinctive change about Rose... She has matured (well as much as she can considering her personality). I love being able to see her as a leader and still be fragile at the same time. Its endearing. 
 While reading this we get a better insight of the social classes between the different vampires. I felt as if Dhampirs are brainwashed into a way of thinking as they feel its their duty to protect the moroi. And the Moroi, they came across as, well, snobs, even the non royalty. They feel that as they are the only way for dhampir's to reproduce that they owe it to them to protect them. They look down on the dhampir's and I admit I love this about the book no matter how much it annoys me. It is a great way of showing people in real life how they can act. (was that a little preachy?) 
 What I loved about this book was the slight angst about Rose's relationship with Dimitri. In my opinion this was the main concern for this book even though there was danger surrounding them. But I have to say I quite enjoyed reading the fight scene with the Strigoi. Even though most of the action takes place at the end I was still good to read. 
 Oh and we also get to meet a new character, Adrian. I believe he is also in Bloodlines and so far I love his annoying self. 
 As for not giving it 5 stars I just felt it was gearing up for something more to come like I said it my Vampire Academy review but it was a great read and I thoroughly enjoyed every second of it.