Wow!!!! 
 When I first starting reading this book I was a bit on the iffy side since it is my first Richelle Mead read. No I have not read Vampire Academy despite owning the entire series. But I pushed on with book wondering what was in store for Adelaide. I'm so glad I did because this book was a whirlwind of surprises in the best way imaginable. I was so absorbed in this book I hardly came up for air. 
 This book was wonderfully written with plenty of surprises and grip your seat angst that had me terrified to read the next page. I enjoyed the world Richelle Mead created that was much like our history, but a few twists on society and religion. I loved the main character Adelaide; she was a very strong and smart girl with a silver tongue who spoke her mind. My favorite kind of main character. I also liked that she had two best friends that she made while in The Glittering Court, Tamsin and Mira who were supportive and had each others back. I also loved Cedric and Adelaide and Cedric together were more than enjoyable. 
 This book took me by complete surprise. There were plenty of OMG and WTH moments that had me baffled at what could possibly happen next. The romance was beautifully written and very tasteful so that young readers won't feel uncomfortable. I highly recommend this book.