I like that this is continuing to follow Raphael and Elena instead of jumping off to other couples; their relationship is one that's developing slowly over an extended period of time and it's really sweet to see him become a little more human. I also like to see her interactions with his Seven and we meet Noel, who is featured in the short story in Angels of Darkness. 
 I also like that while Elena trains hard and can keep herself from being killed she isn't suddenly all powerful - her immortality will take time to grow and strengthen her. Her drive to succeed is impressive, but she also knows when enough is enough. 
 As a side note, Michaela is a spoiled bitch and I get that they need her after they had to kill Uram, but will someone please actually punish her in a meaningful way?!?