The author did a fabulous job of twisting the plot. She kept me believing that I knew where it was going, and then gave me a fork in the road where I was uncertain. I enjoyed being surprised by where the plot went. I did not see the end coming!

I loved the fantasy components of Ms. Stradling’s work. They included the culture of dracons (part dragon, part human), as well as other infected creatures like werewolves, vampires and witches, and what traits (or aspects) each non-human possessed. She also took concepts like the soul and used them to create depth in both individual characters and the storyline. The description of the layers of the soul was interesting.

Ms. Stradling did a great job helping me to relate to her characters. I loved the strong female main character. I connected with her confusion in moments and her anxiety at being out of control (of both her circumstances and herself).

I gave the book four stars instead of five only because it took a while to get into it. There was a lot of background given to help you understand Dakota’s loyalties. That said, I am looking forward to the next book about Dakota’s life!

Also, let me give you a quick review from my ten year old son: “I thought it was great as I got into it, but I did not like the teenage gossip. It began to get really interesting about a third of the way through–great plot. I loved the parts about the infections and the dracons. It is worth reading!”