Ratings6
Average rating3.7
Executive Summary: This series keeps getting better. I find it a bit funny that I don't seem to like most young adult books, but am really enjoying a Middle Grade series so much. I guess it goes to show that story is all. 4.5 stars.Full ReviewMuch like his Shadow Campaign series, I'm enjoying this one more and more with each book. After a bit of a slow start, this one grabbed me and didn't let go.I'm not a fast reader in general, but these books read a lot faster than an adult novel. I still tore through the last 25% or so in one sitting, something I haven't done with any book in quite some time. I never felt like I was reading a middle grade book. I was too busy enjoying the story.Alice is a great protagonist. She's likable, and capable, while not being some kind of wonderkin. She makes mistakes, and then learns from them. She's caring.In the last book, we get several new supporting characters, and I was happy to see them return here. We also get a few new ones that make for a great addition to the cast.And then of course you have the cats. People love cats it seems, so you can't go wrong by adding some amusing and well-written cats to your book.This book is definitely setting the stage for something bigger, but it did so without feeling like a transition book. The story was pretty self-contained, while building on the larger overall story. It ends in a good place where I'm eager for the next book, but don't feel like it just stopped.I'm definitely not the target audience here, but I'm nearly as eager for book 4 of this series now as I am for [b:The Guns of Empire 25845201 The Guns of Empire (The Shadow Campaigns, #4) Django Wexler https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1446499764s/25845201.jpg 45878017]. If you're looking for a fun, quick, and fairly light fantasy series. This is worth a look. Even better if you have some kids to share it with.