Rose Hathaway is the novel’s greatest strength. She is impulsive, loyal, funny, and deeply protective, giving the story a heroine with both confidence and believable weaknesses. Her friendship with Lissa receives as much attention as the romance, which adds emotional depth. The academy setting, political conflicts, and fast-moving action create an entertaining beginning to a series that becomes increasingly complex.
My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
