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 To say I was ecstatic when I finally had a chance to read this would be an understatement. It really is sad how we wait a year for a book to release and then read said book immediately and hurriedly-usually within a day or two. Alas, that is the nature of us bookworms and it will continue for a long time to come! 
 I had no idea what to expect in the sequel, although certain things had quickly become attached to Siege and Storm that instantly made me curious. There was talk about the Darkling's new power, the romance, and the addition of a strange character named Sturmhond everyone seemed to love. After I read Shadow and Bone, I sold my soul to this series and Siege and Storm did not disappoint me. 
 Alina and Mal have been on run but they quickly learn you can't hide from the Darkling. Boy, was I glad to see him early on in the story. Although he didn't play a huge direct part in this novel, he did have his appearances, and many other things made up for his absence. One being this mysterious Sturmhond. 
 At first I was somewhat confused at what the hype was about him in particular except his cunning personality and absolutely devious plans. And then, well, let's just say a twist surrounds Sturmhond and it is not one to miss. 
 SIEGE AND STORM introduces a new setting-the True Sea. I enjoyed the parts that took part on the sea, I love the ship setting and Sturmhond was quite the character as captain of his ship. Another thing about the setting is that we learn more about Ravka, the location and the politics involved. 
 The main issue I had with the novel was the pacing. It felt as it the entire middle of book was planning for a huge battle and romantic drama. While the romantic drama was entertaining at first, it got a bit over-dramatic and unrealistic at times. I thought Mal was being a bit of a drama-queen, but then again I had always been a Darkling fan *evil laughter.* 
 "I've seen what you truly are," said the Darkling, "and I've never turned away. I never will. Can he say the same?" 
 The fantasy elements at play in this novel were fantastically written. The Darkling's new power is horrifying, and Alina's quest to become stronger is admirable yet terrifying at the same time. This novel is just full of bad-assery all around. 
 I can not wait for RUIN AND RISING, especially after that ending. Leigh Bardugo does an excellent job by giving us all just enough closure for one book but still dishing out an unbearable cliffhanger, leaving us wanting for more.