This is how a sequel should be done I absolutely loved A Monsoon Rising so much more, whereas the first book was mainly set around the world building and full of action from the start AMR builds a lot on the character growth of Talasyn and Alaric and honestly I loved every interaction between them while also developing the continued world building and plot. 

It is a little slower paced but it worked so well as it helped in not only their own character growth but also to build on their relationship together, I really felt more connected to the characters in this book. The angst, tension and banter is still very much carried over from The Hurricane Wars and I loved how both Talasyn and Alaric are still trying to deny their growing attraction and feelings for each other, there are quite a few more spicy moments in this book as well but it was exceptionally well written and captured the full chemistry between them perfectly. 

While there wasn’t as much action as the first book it still delivers some full action scenes but is a more behind the scenes look at the political aspects from both sides. I could feel a betrayal coming but I wasn’t expecting that ending at all!! I can’t wait to see what happens next and will be patiently waiting for the next book.