De La Cruz creates a rich world of magic, royals, and political intrigue. Shadow is a strong female protagonist who seems to get herself into trouble, and wants to be a fighter. She has magic of her own which I’m interested to see developed more. I’m so interested in Caledon after reading this excerpt. I hope we get chapters in his perspective because he seems like such an interesting character and I want to know more. This sampler ends with Shadow being summoned to the royal court by her mother, and I can only imagine what mischief she will get herself into in that situation. Definitely want to pick up this book and find out what will happen. This is the the first of a duology which I tend to prefer to series.