Considering how the first book ended, I was really curious to see how this one would go. The previous book in the series was visceral and bloody and terrifying, and this book wastes no time dropping into the same space. And honestly, that's probably what saved it for me. The last book hit me in all the right spots because I love a tournament arc. Sadly, it turns out I do not love a collect-em-all arc, and this plot definitely focuses on collecting the Important Things to get to the end goal. But I stuck with it because Zilan and the Empress are just so great to watch together. They're both cunning and relentless rivals who leave destruction in their wake as they fight, with a surprising amount of intimacy woven into their narrative. It's the most intimacy we get as the romance is practically a footnote at this point. I liked the focus on the main plot, but anyone hoping for more romantic moments like the first book might be let down. This book had to move fast to tie up all the threads from the first book, and move fast it does. A couple reveals come through magical means that feel a bit convenient, but the ending wraps everything up nicely. Overall, a duology recommended for anyone who wants something steeped in Chinese lore with an unforgiving villain and a heroine who's equally brutal.

Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the advance copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.