This is essentially the 'Empire Strikes Back' of the Wings of Fire world. It’s dark, it’s messy, and it doesn't have a happy ending, but it's also the best-written book in the entire series.
Sutherland doesn't pull punches here. She explores how power corrupts even the most 'well-meaning' people. If your kid is into the series, they’ve probably already begged for this, and you should let them read it—just maybe check in with them after they finish the chapter where Darkstalker confronts his father. It's a heavy one.






