This is the third book in a longer series and should not be read as a stand-alone. The previous two books are necessary to understand the characters and plot lines in this book, and the story is not resolved at the end, but continues into the next book.

While the first two books are told almost exclusively from Elloren’s POV, we get additional characters and points of view in this story. Elloren’s friends have been separated as they seek safety in their rebellion against Vogel and the Mage Council.

Elloren must rely on Lukas for safety and protection from both Vogel and the assassins that are looking for her. Allies help them train Elloren for the coming battle. Meanwhile her friends and family are finding new allies (and foes) in the Eastern Realm.

I had a lot of mixed feelings while reading this book. Elloren is kind of a brat and comes off as a victim through most of the book, but she is supposed to be the savior of the world (or destroyer, depending on which version of the story you believe). While Lukas is ultimately a good guy, he comes off as an arrogant jerk a lot of the time. And their relationship bothered me a little, but I do understand it.

There are some lulls throughout the book, but it ends with a lot of action. Beloved characters are believed to be dead (are they?), Elloren appears to be on her own with everyone hunting her, and Vogel’s evil powers appear to be getting stronger.

I would have liked to have seen a lot more of the other characters in this book as well. I missed Rafe, Diana, Jar0d and Andras. We did see a little of Winter, and some of Tierney, Trystan, Aislinn and Yvan, but I would have liked more.

Disclaimer: I received an eARC for review consideration through NetGalley, on behalf of the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.