October 1, 2011
Gr 7-10-This sequel to Aurelia (Penguin/Speak, 2008) has poor pacing; it is the vivid characters who keep the pages turning. Aurelia, crown princess of Tyralt, is on the run due to the scheming of her sister, Melony. She is joined by Robert, son of the former royal spy and her childhood friend. On their journey, they struggle with their developing feelings for one another-and attempt to stay alive. As they travel to remote noble strongholds, the vast frontier, and the desert, Robert comes to terms with his need to protect Aurelia, and Aurelia faces choosing between her kingdom and Robert. Strong, guarded, sensitive Robert is contrasted with the headstrong and passionate Aurelia. They both make mistakes as they experience new places and people, slowly maturing. The plot itself is rather threadbare. References to time passing are handled clumsily, and a subplot about Aurelia's mother feels tacked on. Newcomers will feel lost until they figure out the story, but readers of the first book might enjoy finding out what happens next.-Melissa Rabey, Frederick County Public Libraries, MD
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