CrowNoYami
It's hard to put into words how much I love this book.
While the first book introduces the characters and world(s) to you, this gives you a deep dive into their personalities and what they are waiting to fight and die for. There are so many twists in this book, and learning what people stand for, what their true motives are, makes the characters not only more relatable, but if you haven't fallen in love with at least one character yet, you will by the end of the book.
I do have to warn you if you choose to pick up this book (which I recommend you do) that you keep in mind that this is set (like the last one) in the middle of a war. Because of this, there are some violent scenes. Although I wouldn't call it exceptionally graphic, some moments may make someone uncomfortable if you aren't prepared for it.
I can't wait to read the next book in this trilogy, to see how Casilim-la, Lauren and Anutea end this war and what they have to endure before the end of this trilogy.