Second book syndrome Traitor of Redwinter does not suffer from. It does have shady politics and dirty bastards to throw a spanner in the works. I love that Raine is still utterly flawed character. Yes, she's the main character, but being the star of the show hasn't made her <i>'one that cannot do wrong'</i> .. in fact, she does a lot wrong. Like, everything?! Ha... 

This book definitely has a more oppressive feel, even though Daughter of the Redwinter was already quite dark with emotions when it delivered that representation of depression, and did it well. Traitor has a different kind of gloominess to it. There is a representation of illness, of withering away that delivers emotion so well. The feeling of being caged up, of having no control... That's hard!

The two brief sparks that brought a smile to my face were a certain character from the past and Castus. Unexpectedly. These two coming together (literally? tee-hee) was the light entertainment and joy that I didn't know I needed. And the love interest, love triangle thingy that's happening... again, subtle but quite solid and basically, hashtag Team Sanvaunt because he's the kind of steady, level headed calm that everyone could do with in their life!

After Daughter, I was wondering about the possibilities that this sequel might deliver to the reader, and really, plot wise, all expectations get exceeded. It's blown into epic proportions and major betrayals. But I have to say... I was always suspicious of our villain in this particular story. I knew it. I just knew it! 

I do have to say I felt the pace didn't have as much of a spring in its step as book 1 would have had, and the secondary characters, whilst delivering surprises, didn't really go through some epic development, but the story? It's so worthwhile and I simply cannot wait what comes next! I cannot even imagine what trick McDonald has to pull out of his sleeve to top the story so far, but I have no doubts. If anyone can do it, it's Ed.