Truly a fantastic sequel. This one is all story, losing and improving fortunes, and much heavier stakes compared to the first novel. 
 I think I like this one much better. We've got to gain an empire, after all, and try to do it without losing yourself, your friends, or your purpose. It's quite delicious and well crafted. There's a lot of action and none of it gets boring. There's a great mix of politics, motivations, subversions, plain heroism, and stark terror. 
 The writing is truly excellent. I was never once bored. This is more than simple popcorn entertainment. It's pretty epic. 
 :) 
 I can't wait for the third book coming soon! 
 It's a rollicking good tale. It's not just a "rags-to-riches" tale. It's a "let's pull this motherfucker to the ground" tale. The pacing is where it really shines. It reads like a mindcandy novel, but it has some pretty decent depth. 
 Anyone who enjoys a bit of blatant mythology seasonings slathered over their meal will get a kick out of this. It's extremely hard to miss, especially when all the freaking names aren't even changed. :) I think that's the only reason this is considered YA, honestly. There's not very much subtlety. 
 The novel is SOLID. :)