Mirrorstrike is a fantastic continuation to the story and world established in Winterglass. At times, it felt as though it could have done with being a little longer than it was - I would like to have seen and learned more about Heron for example - but overall I would say that it was stronger than the first book. The prose is as beautiful and evocative as ever, if not more so, and we got to see and learn more of the world and the Winter Queen's rule, and the impact it has had on the people, as well as more of her origins. The representation in these books is fantastic, and I particularly liked the ending - as unexpected as it was - which subverted my expectations in the best way, and has left me eagerly anticipating the next book.