Reviewed by Silvara on
The first book concentrated a lot on what was happening inside the Academy. On the lessons, friendships, intrigue and day-to-day. This one had a little of the school day stuff, but mostly skimmed over that to focus on the friendships, things that happened before school started, and the mysteries Evie was trying to solve.
For a lot of the book, the four friends were separate from each other a lot. Not in physical distance, but emotional. From hiding away, to finding other friends to hang out with, it didn't have the closeness of the previous book. They do eventually work their issues, but it seemed to take an awfully long time to happen.
I loved the reveal on the major fairytale character we get to meet. (I won't say whom or when!) But it worked really well, and I liked how it all unfolded. I didn't like the way Evie treated her family, even if she did end up realizing and regretting it later on. It does make sense for her age and character, but it always seems like the dragons get the short end of the stick in this series.
I really do love the magic in this series. Parchment letters that turn into hawks to deliver themselves, fire-breathing, being able to make a shield by not letting your fear control you and having courage.
I also love that one of the Princesses in training is actually a boy. Basil is still one of my favorite characters, and he stayed true to himself while growing as a character too.
This review was originally posted on Fantasy of the Silver Dragon
Reading updates
- Started reading
- 23 July, 2016: Finished reading
- 23 July, 2016: Reviewed