The romance really takes the drivers seat in this book. Our two main characters are still acting like enemies when they are so obviously in love with each other. The spice ramps up a bit in this book too (which I enjoyed) but the push & pull felt so immature. 

The politics & fantasy elements took a back seat. Every characters loyalties & motivations basically stayed the same, and the non romance plot points felt jumpy. There were a few too many fade to black and come back weeks/months later for my liking. 

I thought this series was a duology and was a little upset when I got towards the end of this book and realized this would not be the end. The entire first book and 70% of this book are leading up to one big event. I loved the way the light & shadow powers came together, but because they practiced so much the big event was a little less exciting. I was a little let down. I will say, the action is really well written in this series. I wasn't expecting the last 10% at all. I have higher hopes for the 3rd book.