Lady of Darkness

Really enjoyed this book even if it didn't make me stay up all night to read on. That's not to say it's boring, but there may be some slight pacing issues at times. I find it hard sometimes to stick with Scarlett sometimes, probably because she reminds me of ToG's Aelin a lot - and I didn't like her. She is also an assassin, also adopted by the Assassin Lord as a child, also has foggy memories of a mother that may have been more than human, etc. Lives in a place where magic is not working. Let's just say, if you liked ToG, you'll also like this. 

I'm much more interested in the MMC. I find that the big reveals here are somewhat obvious early on <spoiler> like that he is the Fire Prince; I thought that one was so clear to start with... I did like the twist about him being her target, even if not terribly surprising at the point where it's revealed.</spoiler>. 

What I didn't like are the secrets upon secrets, and the complaints about them... again, reminded me of Aelin, and I'm not a huge fan. I feel like the MFC feels really young and somewhat immature against the MMC. I do appreciate the treatment of trauma here, though. <spoiler> The way that her shutting down is often portrayed, esp between books 1 and 2 is pretty intense... </spoiler>. 

And finally, the world-building is really good here, loads going on, but revealed - for the most part - in a way that makes you want to learn more. The only complaint here is the use of "better not call her" without any hint who she might be. I find that annoying. 

All that said, heed the CNs, this gets dark. But it's good, and I'm already reading the next book!