This book directly follows the events in 'Ravens Shadow' and I very strongly recommend that you read the excellent first book before this sequel. Seraph and husband Tier and their boys travel home, having been reunited again. But the threat of the Shadowed is upon them even before they get home, and soon the whole family is embroiled again in saving Tier from the insidious theft of his talent before it is too late. Oh yeah, and of course saving the Empire while they're at it.
Old favourites fellow Raven Henea, and Emperor Phoran are here too, and now take on more of a role in the adventure as the group travels to the ancient and dangerous city of Colossae.
More is revealed in this book about the Orders and their beginnings, in particular of the reason the Guardians are so unstable. There is treachery, bravery, ambition and love for family, the latter being a strong theme, and Phoran shines here. Phoran has grown a lot over the two books, the most of all the characters in my view.
The story splits into 3 lines of similar weight - the threat to Tier, to the Empire, and Hennea's story. One will take over as the central story, but the dynamic shifts as the action progresses. It's a strong book, with lots mixed into it. A few surprises, a little romance, and generally a continuation of the idea of good people trying to do the right thing. The ups and downs will keep the reader engrossed right up to the last page.
