This is the 2nd book of the Sundered series, and like many sequels of a 3+ book series, it suffers slightly because the book spends much of its time explaining the necessary events that will lead to the denouement found in the later books. That explanation IS necessary based upon the ending of the 1st book and Ms. West does a good job interposing new story elements, such as new characters, to keep the story moving. However, because her 1st book had done such a good job getting me hooked on Sara's and Stefanos's romance, I was slightly disappointed that I have to wait for the 3rd book to see more development in regard to their relationship. If one keeps that in mind, the 2nd book will still be enjoyable despite the need to exercise patience until the 3rd book.

From the very beginning this book was interesting. The book is wirtten in a dark atmosphere because the light is weak now in the empire and you simply feel how dark it is. The young Darin is a very touching and real character. There were parts so sad that I even cried. You can actually feel him pain when he is hurting and his relief when he meets the lovely Sara. I have never read a book to move me in such a way.

The doomed love story of the last woman of the Light and the Dark Lord continues in this bleak, haunting installment in the Sundered series. After waking from centuries of enchanted sleep, the stubborn and compassionate Erin, now called Sara by her brooding, bitter husband, remembers none of her past. But now once merciless, once merciful Stefanos must face the wrath of his Master and give up his love for Sara... This book introduces Darin, the boy-child who must grow up to be a man too soon and carry on the legacy of his line. A bright new character who infuses the story with reality. The story is still woven with somber threads and a dark atmosphere. A deep, psychological read. Retains its romance at the oddest moments. Lovely, in a disturbing way.