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Aug 05, 2016
Slight spoilers ahead... As always I struggle with the second book in a series. They typically add nothing to the plot line, choosing instead to build on characters or world building. This would be fine except that it is done to the exclusion of expanding or adding to the overall plot. As with most books at this point in a series a diverting quest was written in that allowed for a great deal of travel in which the characters could think dramatically about who they are and explore more parts of the world in great detail. So very typical. Meira performed her standard heroine task of forgetting who she is in an attempt to be a "better" version of herself so very selflessly, all while missing glaring signs that something is drastically amiss and refusing to acknowledge the behavior of the characters around her as being questionable, untrustworthy even. This is prevalent in her interactions with Theron throughout their travels. At each step he does something questionable or outright betrays Meira. Yet, each time, she convinces herself that she simply must be mistaken. Mather plays his role perfectly as well. The martyred former hero who staying totally dedicated to the long term goal while everyone else forgets. The friend who sacrifices his own happiness for the heroines sake. He annoyed me though, in that he barely put up a fight. I did like the addition of the Children of the Thaw. I think if these characters were built upon it could add dramatically to the cast of characters and the eventual conclusion to the story. But throughout this book, Mather consistently irked me. He didn't grow, he didn't change, he just was....rather boringingly. I give this 3*'s primarily because of the setup for the third installment. As with most second books in a series the whole thing felt like a giant setup for the grand finale. The plot twists were rather predictable for the most part. However, Raasch's writing style made it entertaining even while it was somewhat bland. The changes in perspective went a long way toward making the march toward the inevitable conclusion of this installment worthwhile. If you have read the first book, I recommend this one as well. But only so that the third one makes sense. This book is filler. The vast majority could have been glossed over without any detrimental effects on the plot. I look forward to the third book in the series. I trust that Raasch will provide a suitably grand conclusion and has set that book up well with this one.