Full disclosure: I never read the first book in this series, and it seems like it could hold some pertinent knowledge. However, this story already covers quite a bit about the main character's backstory and how we got to where we are. While I am hesitant to read a story written by an older man and told in a teenage girl's voice, the plot seems to be promising and the characters well rounded. Emily definitely gives off an Arya Stark vibe, which is certainly not a bad thing.