This is the second book in this fantasy series. The book picks up where the first book ended. Vasya has reached the age where one of many of the crossroads life has for her has been reach: an arranged marriage or a life in a convent. While facing these two choices, neither she is willing to choose, Vasya makes a third choice. She decides to escape her fate and starts a journey to make her own fate. She disguises herself as a boy and sets off for the city of Moscow. This book was just as good or even better than the first book. The author creates such a great atmosphere throughout the battles as well as the magical elements Vasya encounters. Vasya is such an amazing character. She is strong, cleaver, and willing to make her own imagine in a world that asked women to conform to their assigned roles of mothers and wives. The action and pacing of this book was well balanced. Overall, I enjoyed this book and am eagerly anticipating the third and final book in this series.