After not really enjoying Shadow & Bone, it took me ages to pick this one up - and I'm glad I did because it surpassed the Shadow and Bone in every way for me. 
 I found this to be far more engaging than the first book, and Alina to be far more enjoyable. 
 Love this amazing world, magic and politics included. 
 (Also, Nikolai was a gem and I hope he features in Ruin & Rising!) 
 Review to come.