Not sure how to feel. I definitely liked the first book better. This one falls into a lot of the classic traps of fantasy sequels where there is just a LOT going on, a few too many twists and turns, a lot to keep up with…and it just loses its center a bit. I’ll definitely read the next book whenever it comes out because I’m attached enough to the characters that I’m really curious what will happen, but oof. 

Also be warned this one is MUCH darker than the first. It’s honestly so dark that then the spice just feels like an intrusion/inconsistent with the rest of the plot and mood.