Final Rating:
Date of Completion: 16/07/2026
Published by: Titan Books
ISBN: 9781785652493
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This sequel exceeded my expectations! It takes everything that made the first book so captivating—the morally grey characters, the high-stakes conflicts, and the exploration of ambition and power—and elevates it to new heights. The shifting timelines and multiple points of view also create compelling momentum that steadily builds toward a gripping climax. Even the deeper development of the previous characters and the expanded cast were nicely done. With the third book set to be released this year, I’m excited to see where the story goes next!
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Discussion Questions (Contains spoilers!):
Q: Do you have any similar book recommendations?
The Poet Empress by Shen Tao. Like this book, it has complex, morally grey characters who are brilliantly used to explore themes of ambition, power, and revenge. I also recommend checking out other books and series by V.E. Schwab. For example, while the Shades of Magic series is more of an adventurous fantasy, it also has morally grey characters and explores similar themes of power and ambition.
Q: If you had to pick any EO ability from this book, which one would you choose and why? How do you think it would impact your life and relationships? Would you be willing to experience a near-death experience to gain it?
Q: If EOs existed in real life, whose perspective would you support most: Marcella, Strutt, or Eli? Why?
Q: Would you describe yourself as patient like Eli, or are you more impulsive?
Q: What did you think of the new characters and the dynamics they added to the story? Did they make the story more interesting, or did you find yourself wishing for more focus on the original cast?
Q: Have you ever discovered that someone close to you betrayed your trust? If so, how did you respond in the moment, and did it change your relationship?
Q: Which character left the strongest impression on you, and why?
Q: Did your opinion of any character change significantly as the story progressed? Did you find yourself unexpectedly rooting for or feeling sorry for any of them?
Q: Which themes stood out most to you, and how effectively were they explored?
Q: What did you think of the ending? Do you have any predictions for the next book, and where do you see the story heading from here?
Q: How does this sequel compare to the first book? Did the differences make you enjoy it more, less, or about the same?
Do you agree or disagree with anything mentioned above? Let us know in the comments below.
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