Each new installment of Mima's Truxet series builds upon the last, each one better than the one before. Mima has created a vibrant world, one in which new boundaries and new mythologies are set. She's has a novel, enchanting voice in the genre, taking old tropes and breathing new life into them.

The conflict and drama which has been building up slowly over the past few books comes to an exciting crescendo in this book. What was previously only hinted at now comes more or less into the open, and we gain new insight into the world, the culture, and the dynamics that shape it.

What I truly enjoyed about this book was, in a departure from the past books, there is no instant attraction between Vivienne and Odan. Vivienne has her own secrets, her goals and motivations and they almost take a second seat to the romance between her and Odan. It's clear that Mima is moving quickly from writing almost pure romance to writing that has more depth to it. I especially enjoy their initial fireworks, particularly when Vivienne insists on bringing her own things on the mission. Odan's change from despising Vivienne to his slow seduction of her was both amusing and in its way, touching.

I can't wait for the next installment, to see what new changes and challenges await the Truxet.