“features the same fun, fast-moving formula as the first book, with charming characters and exciting intrigue mixed with a handful of magic . . . Schoenherr’s moody illustrations (not all seen by PW) add to the atmosphere of this magical (in multiple senses) story.” — Publishers Weekly, starred review
“This . . . well-constructed adventure accurately conveys the geopolitical instability of the era and is leavened with just enough magic, chaste romance and humor to appeal to middle-grade readers through teens.” — Kirkus Reviews
“Meloy boldly weaves the disparate strings of the story together in inventive—sometimes breathtaking—ways. More nuanced than the first book, this brings together a large and intriguing cast and explores their knotty relationships . . . the characters become more memorable as the pages fly by.” — Booklist