This is a sample of the first three chapters of the book, all from Giddon's point of view.

Giddon, along with other Council members like Katsa and Po, have been smuggling Gracelings from Estill, where they are still the property of the government, into Monsea, where they can be free under Queen Bitterblue's rule. But Estill is not the only country to worry about, as Monsea has been in communication with the country of Winterkeep across the sea. They seem more technologically advanced, with airships and telepathic animals and all sorts of wonders, but after the suspicious deaths of Bitterblue's emissaries, she becomes convinced that the only way to get to the bottom of what is going on is to go herself.

I adored Graceling when it first came out, and reading these chapters was almost like visiting with old friends - and the time seemed to pass just as quickly, too! Giddon's got an interesting take on everything going on in Monsea. We've also already got the setup for a romance, as it's obvious he's in love with Bitterblue, though she seems to view him only as a good friend.

I can't wait to read the rest of the book and see what's really going in with Monsea!

This sampler made me realize it’s time to revisit the world! Based on this tiny snippet I’m even more excited to dive into this upcoming release!

Thank you to the publishers, author and NetGalley for the free sample of this book!

I'M SO EXCITED!! This series is truly one of my absolute favorites and I am just thrilled to read more. This sample was almost a tease because now I just NEED the whole thing!! If you haven't read the other books in this series, do it now, you won't regret it!