I couldn't finish this graphic novel fast enough--it's a lot of "witty" dialogue. Could have been much shorter!

Girl has sword, Defender. She has a cute boy, who is not a boy; he's a troll; the troll is pledged to defend girl. They talk back and forth. Trolls go after girl. Big scene at the end with surprises about girl's family. Ugh! ( )

Great fun, a bit predictable, best to read Foiled first.

Aliera is back, with her foil, to battle the powers of darkness. Great illustrations, good plot, with a few mysteries thrown in. ( )

I enjoyed this one more than book 1. The fantastic elements felt more naturally incorporated here, and though the story has a satisfying enough conclusion we are left with some intriguing questions at the end for the next one. There is a synopsis of the previous book at the beginning of this one, which I actually found explained some things in the last book I didn't quite get. ( )

So thankfully there is a brief reminder in the beginning of what happened in the previous book. This book continues the series and wraps up the beginner story line started in the previous book. (i.e. while the series continues, this at least feels like I completed story.) I also felt like this volume had a more grown up vibe. Even Aliera felt more grown up looking to me.

There were some unexpected betrayals and there was some unexpected help. I am definitely curious to see where the rest of the series will end up. I also want to see where the strange relationship between Aliera and Avery goes, while romance has been hinted at I am hoping for a sibling type relationship. I'm also curious about what Caroline's part in all of this will eventually be. ( )

So thankfully there is a brief reminder in the beginning of what happened in the previous book. This book continues the series and wraps up the beginner story line started in the previous book. (i.e. while the series continues, this at least feels like I completed story.) I also felt like this volume had a more grown up vibe. Even Aliera felt more grown up looking to me.

There were some unexpected betrayals and there was some unexpected help. I am definitely curious to see where the rest of the series will end up. I also want to see where the strange relationship between Aliera and Avery goes, while romance has been hinted at I am hoping for a sibling type relationship. I'm also curious about what Caroline's part in all of this will eventually be. ( )