*Spoilers if you have not read the first book* 
 I was mesmerized reading the first book and was left tormented at the ending. I could not wait to dive right into this book! I am still amazed that Ms. Kluver is so young (only 19 yrs. old) and manages to write so eloquently. 
 This book starts off exactly where Legacy leaves us. Right away, we are thrust into the nuptials of Alera and Steldor. All the while, the search is still on for Narian. Alera is trying to come to terms of how to serve as the Queen and try to be the wife to a husband that she despises. Her heart is still breaking over Narian and she literally is falling apart. 
 This is where I am sooo conflicted! In Legacy, I was in love with Narian and could not see Alera with anyone other than him. In this second book, I am sooo much in love with Steldor and found myself just screaming at Alera to just submit to his love and love him back. 
 Steldor had matured a lot in this book and tried really hard to gain Alera's affections. At one point, I thought maybe she would give in. 
 Steldor 
 The reader knows why Narian is doing the things he is during this book, but cannot help feeling frustrated with him in the process. He does not have much of a presence in this book, but the times that he does, really packs a punch! 
 Narian 
 Alera learns a lot about herself and realizes she is stronger than she had thought. She gets a lot of advice from her mother and of course, London. She tests the boundaries and I really enjoyed her "I am woman, hear me roar" attitude. 
 The book ended very well and it seemed that all the pieces were wrapped up into a neat and tidy bow. There was action, drama, romance and death. I am curious as to what will happen in the next installment and cannot wait for it!