The first entry in the series was excellent, and this one was even better. Although the characters from the first book are in this entry, they are not the focus. Thus the beginning is a bit of a difficult read as it introduces new characters and their communities. Stay with it (and remember the glossary in the back!) because after the first 100 pages or so you will not be able to put this book down. It has everything: action, adventure, romance, political intrigue...... not to mention the elaborate and unique world-building that Jemisin's fans have come to expect.