YES. My gut instinct to continue with this series was spot on. My rating for The Winner's Curse was pretty low, and I wasn't entirely sure if this series would evolve into something better or worse. 
 Well let me tell you - this book did not disappoint. It exceeded expectations. It takes a complete turn from the romance of the previous book and delves deep into treason and betrayal of the empire Kestrel is going to inherit through her marriage. 
 "If you won't be my friend, you'll regret being my enemy." 
 What a gem. My desire to see Kestrel develop was granted in this book, as she plots, uncovers secrets, and does any and everything possible to keep Arin at arm's length. This book steps away from the flirtations, focusing heavily on Kestrel utilizing her intelligence and gift for strategizing to outwit the Emperor and help the Herrani people, all because she loves Arin. What I find most admirable in Kestrel is that she is overwhelmingly human - and she will do anything if it is in the best interest of the one's she loves, even sacrificing her own happiness to do so. 
 Arin on the other hand spends most of his time being angry, confused, and kind of bullheaded as to why Kestrel refuses to talk about what happen during the Firstwinter rebellion or even admit how she feels about him (and there's a bit of plotting with his spymaster). Needless to say, he spent a lot of his time trying to not think about Kestrel in a positive light, or think about her at all. Their flaws are what make them this perfect pair, and I think having a book with less romance and so much deception truly revealed that. I JUST CAN'T DEAL WITH THESE TWO RIGHT NOW. 
 The ending of this book gives me no doubts that the final installment will be absolutely brilliant - it was wicked and cruel. Rutkoski's writing is vivid and rich. It captured me from page one of this book. I could not put this book down, and am so pleased that I continued on with this series. 
 Overall rating is 4.5 stars.