Deceit

Don't be intimidated by the page count. This is a well written and easy-to-read story with so much going on, you'll reach the end before you know it.

The story picks up right after the events of the first book and it's not for the easily offended. There's foul (sometimes brilliant!) language, violence, injustice and despair.

The title says it all. This is a dark and grim tale of deceit: political, personal, psychological, professional, divine, magical — you name it. Like in the first book, my favourite thing was the dialogue and the banter between the characters. It's rare to see both animosity and camaraderie depicted in such an entertaining way.

Another high point is the characterisation itself and how well mental illness, addiction and trauma are portrayed. Not only they actually fit the characters' personalities and background, they affect their choices, relationships and development in a way that makes sense.

This is a long book and it might drag a bit too much at times, with descriptions, reiterations and seemingly unnecessary meanderings, but pay attention, there lies the deceit.

Looking forward to the next book in the series!