Definitely better than the first book in pretty much everything. I liked this one, and Pell is just a fun and interesting character, the fact that he’s kind of in it for his own motives makes it more fun and it makes him a more complex and interesting character. As much of a douche as he can be I can’t help but love him. And damn that ending though, when you really take it, that’s bloody horrifying! The actual ending point is way too abrupt though. Oh well.
Old thoughts (still relevant though):
The characters are pretty good, likeable and all with identifiable strengths and weaknesses or flaws. I like how they're all really quite different. Elian is adventurous and kind to everyone, however his flaw is being a little naive. Nolita has a massive fear of dragons - and all huge creatures - but she is actually very brave and has managed to face her fears. She is also quite smart and kind. Kira is very fierce and determined and can adapt to any situation, and man she is devious. She is cautious, intelligent and greatly independent. She is probably the least flawed out of all of them. I struggle to find a flaw with her, maybe she's a bit stubborn. And finally Pell (my personal favourite) is very strong, determined, brave, resourceful and ferociously independent. But he is also probably the most flawed, being quite arrogant and stubborn and even a little foolish at first, but he learns his lesson. I'm intrigued though, it says that he never lets people get close because in his experiences friendship only led to pain. What happened in Pell's past that makes him so cold and distant? It’s not really covered. I wish we could know more, but oh well.