I have loved the Spellslinger series thus far and I think that this fourth offering is probably my favourite. The world expands once again here, showing us a completely different sector that we haven't been privy to up to now and it just goes to confirm de Castell as a consummate author truly comfortable in the world he has created. Kellen is challenged more seriously in this book and there is definitely a darker tone to the narrative overall, without losing the snarky asides to the reader that we have come to expect. There are some heartbreaking scenes here too and I would definitely say that this instalment is not for the faint-hearted with some pretty unpleasant characters rearing their heads. All in all, I really enjoyed the direction that this book has taken and am very much looking forward to the next offering in the Spellslinger universe.