This book started off much like the first book. While I enjoyed the first book, I wasn't ready to read 500+ pages about the same thing. It doesn't take long for it to veer in another direction and start Spensa on a new adventure. And what an adventure it is! We get to travel to a new place and meet new characters. The whole story kept my attention and was enjoyable throughout. I liked the first book but enjoyed the second book even more.