This book just gutted me. Make no mistake, this book might be YA but it is hardcore. Days of Blood and Starlight is quite different from book one. This book is far more epic in scope, and decidedly darker. It is drenched in the horrors of war and presents a heart breaking, sophisticated and intense reckoning of the physical and psychological toll warfare takes on individuals and societies. It is a book with few clear heroes and villains and oodles of morally gray characters navigating impossible situations. 
 Everything about this book worked for me. The characters were well drawn and developed organically, the plot was gripping, the writing was gorgeous, and it was both intellectually and emotionally stimulating. I was moved to tears by sections of this book. I can't wait for book three. The dramatic stakes are so high!