Aren Tiernal knows that safety is an illusion, that his cruel and powerful brother will never forgive his betrayal. Still, returning to Tyrea to challenge Severn for the throne would be suicide. It’s not until Severn himself comes to collect what’s owed to him that Aren decides to risk everything in an attempt to bring down the most powerful Sorcerer Tyrea has ever known. The mission seems doomed to fail, but it’s Aren’s only chance to save himself, his country, and the woman who thawed his heart.

Rowan Greenwood has troubles of her own. Though she should be a great Sorceress, years of being closed off from her magic have left her unable to control her incredible power. When a pair of ominous letters arrive from her home country, Rowan has to choose between her new life and a chance at saving her family—and just maybe changing an entire country’s beliefs about the evils of magic.

Torn apart by separate quests, Rowan and Aren will have to discover untapped strengths and confront their darkest fears in order to overthrow a ruler determined to destroy them both. – Goodreads.com

After devouring Bound, the first book in this trilogy, last summer, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Torn.  This was definitely a worthy followup – no sophomore slump here, folks.

Although some readers may disagree with me, I was happy to see Rowan and Aren spend some time apart in this book.  Both had some things to figure out and work through and became stronger in the end.  It was nice to see Rowan mature and develop and come into her own.  Aren struggled with the decision of which path to choose in his life and learned some unexpected news that may change his course entirely.

Some new characters were introduced in this second book and I have to admit I had conflicting feelings regarding Nox.  One moment she was behaving like a spoiled brat, then others, she was a nurturing, caring person.  Florizel was a delight – how can you not like a flying horse?  He’s not a new, but Kel was definitely a welcome returning character – such a great sense of humor and loyal friend.

I liked the way magic was portrayed as it related to sorcerers and sorceresses.  They didn’t have an infinite quantity of magic, making them vulnerable at times, and were gifted in certain areas more than others, giving the plot more complexity and depth.

The final book in this trilogy will determine the outcome of the power struggle, where some characters’ loyalties lie, and the repercussions of paths chosen by some characters and the decisions they made in this book.  I can’t wait.

I received a digital copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.