I know this is a new series by Mead, but it is STRONGLY linked to Vampire Academy. I strongly urge anyone to read that series first because I think I might have been a little lost (actually I kind of was at first since it had been a while since I read Last Sacrifice.) Several of Vampire Academy characters "bleed" over to this new series. Sydney, the alchemist, Jill Dragomir, Eddie, Adrian, and an appearance from Rose and several other favorites! Mead creates a world that you just kind of want to be a part of and characters that you wish you knew. Loved, Loved this book and can't wait for the next one to come out!