This book. I almost have no words. I cannot fully express how utterly fantastic it is. This story is SO dark- I can't believe how much more villainous Adelina has become, but Marie Lu has executed it in such a way that it's a slow descent into darkness and madness, with the reader slowly witnessing Adelina's downfall emotionally and mentally, and uprising physically. My mouth was left hanging open after that ending, and I am currently fighting off my wave of emotions until after this review so that I can cry without restraint. With that being said, let's get to it! 
 The story picks up a few weeks after The Young Elites left off, with Adelina and Violetta traveling to recruit members for the society Adelina wants to create. She is seeking followers who will be loyal to her, and is spreading her name, "The White Wolf", across Kenettra, along with all of the fear and power that goes with it. She has changed from the Adelina we knew in The Young Elites- she has embraced her darkness and is now allowing nothing to get in her way of the throne. She vows to destroy all that try to stop her, and she does so, frequently. 
 This novel brings in a few new characters that were hinted at in the first book: Maeve, Magiano, and Sergio, along with their respective powers. (Maeve's powers are a HUGE part of this story, as they contribute to the biggest twist in this book, but spoilers are something I will not give, so this is just a heads-up!) Another character that I would consider is now apart of this series are the Whispers in Adelina's mind. They're so active now and such a big part of her that I've started to view them as a living thing. One thing Marie Lu does flawlessly is her character development. They are all so real, making the emotional impact of this book even more so with what some of them have to endure. I loved the new characters as well as the relationships that are being built with them- I have high hopes for Adelina and Magiano. He'd be good for her, I think, bringing some joy to her dark world. 
 This sequel advances the plot beautifully, and is filled with action. There is never a dull moment and the plot twists are executed so well. I love the different view points, allowing the reader to see what's going on from all sides of the story always. I also am over the moon with how Marie Lu was able to intertwine the story line with the Roses, the Daggers, the Inquisition, and the royalty so that they were all connected. There were no sperate story lines here. It was all one and so wonderfully woven. 
 I am terrified of what the next book is going to bring, but excited because I NEED to know what happens. I honestly have no idea where this is going to go, but Adelina has definitely racked up some enemies that I know are yearning for revenge. This story being told from her POV, the villain's, is so unique and I'm now addicted to it. I don't how it's possible for me to empathize with her one moment, and then be completely aghast at her actions the next. She is ruthless and cunning, powerful and cruel, but deep down she is the vulnerable, broken, and unsure girl that her father made her into. She is so complex and reading her thoughts laid out on a page is fascinating. She is one of my all-time favorite characters. 
 I am drained after finishing this. Marie Lu is a genius. 'Nuff said. GIVE ME THE NEXT BOOK!!!!