For the second book in the series, I’m not optimistic. It took me almost a month of picking it up and putting it back down to finally complete Crown of Midnight. Most of the story felt tired. The love triangle, the deceit, even the rebel storyline couldn’t keep my attention for very long. I fear this series may have just killed off the most interesting character so far. If it weren’t for Fleetfoot, I may have put it down right then.
I can see the potential in the characters, and I can only hope their personalities grow quickly in the next book. From other reviews, it looks like there are mixed opinions on Prince Dorian’s character; I have to say, I like him. I didn’t mind his magic seemingly coming from nowhere, and I think it will benefit his character in the long run. I’m hoping it will give him some confidence to defy his father in whatever ways he can. Chaol obviously struggles with personal vs professional loyalty. I think that feels relatable for most people, being stuck at a proverbial fork in the road. Caelana is lucky to have both men in her corner, but it feels like secrets will tear them all apart in the coming books.
Different blogs suggest different reading orders, so I will read either Heir of Fire or the Assassin’s Blade next, whichever I can get my hands on at my local library. This is not a series I will be dishing out money for, at least not unless one of the next books surprises me.