This is another book where I accidentally picked up the second one in the series and had to find the first, but it was another enjoyable read. This was better than the first, actually.

I enjoyed the depth of emotion in this and the changing relationships. I also enjoyed seeing the imperial politics at play at home. It's a complicated game that Cassie and her family play, and it was interesting to see Arian getting involved this time around.

A really enjoyable and quick read. I hope that there will be more to come.

"A Wolf in Stone" by Jane Fletcher is a captivating dive into the cutthroat world of the Kavillian Empire, where politics is not just a game, but a dangerous dance of life and death. As a sequel, it continues the story with depth and intensity, yet it stands strong enough that even those with a faint memory of the first book can enjoy it as almost a standalone.

Cassie, a member of an ambitious imperial family, is a character shaped by her environment—calculating, poised, and adept at navigating the treacherous waters of high-level politics. Her journey is one of intrigue, filled with unexpected twists and high stakes that keep the reader engaged throughout. Cassie’s complex relationship with Arian adds an emotional layer to the narrative, making it not just a political thriller but also a profound exploration of love and moral conflict.

Arian, on the other hand, brings a refreshing contrast with her honor-bound nature, highlighting the moral and cultural divides that challenge their relationship. Her struggle to reconcile her values with the ruthless world Cassie inhabits adds depth to the story and makes their relationship all the more compelling. The tension between personal integrity and the demands of loyalty and love is masterfully portrayed, making their dynamic one of the highlights of the book.

What makes "A Wolf in Stone" particularly enjoyable is the way it balances the intricate plot with character development. Fletcher’s writing is immersive, painting a vivid picture of the Kavillian Empire’s opulence and the underlying dangers. The pacing is excellent, with just the right amount of suspense and action to keep you turning the pages.

While the book is part of a series, Fletcher provides enough context and background that it can be enjoyed on its own. However, returning readers will appreciate the continuity and the further exploration of the characters they’ve grown to love.

Overall, "A Wolf in Stone" is a well-crafted, engrossing read that skillfully blends political intrigue with personal drama. It’s a book that not only entertains but also provokes thought about the complexities of power, loyalty, and love. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a smart, engaging novel with strong characters and a plot that keeps you guessing until the end.

Really good sequel , wrapping up the questions from the first installment of love vs duty. This was a well written murder mystery with a well thought out plot. The story moved quickly and the flow didn’t waste time or both itself down with unnecessary dialogue. This had Cultural examinations as both an outsider and citizen. And the author provided explanations for both, with criticisms and significance. I enjoy reading books from a series because I can usually understand what's going on, even if I haven't read the first book in the series, and if the second book is good I know that the first will be as well, and it just makes me want to read it that much more. I would definitely recommend this book to my friends and family and I look forward to what's coming next from this author.

I had no idea this was a sequel, which made me go out and buy the first in the series. That's the greatest compliment I can give. Here's hoping we get a third book. I need all the intrigue I can possibly get from Arian and Cassie.

Thank you to Bold Strokes Books, Inc. | BSB genre and NetGalley for providing an eARC for a honest review.

Entertaining mystery with politics and strong female characters. Enjoyable to,have female gay relationship central to the story. Thank you to # netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.

This is a well thought out murder mystery with an amazing plot. Even though it's a sequel to A Fox in Shadow, it can stand on its own. job. I recommend 4 stars. I thought Jane did a great

Thank You Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley.

This was surprisingly good for me. Once I got over the names and started understanding the naming structure a little more as I went it was overall a good book. I was trying to solve the crime along with the characters.

I did like that no time was wasted. Everything was said for a reason which had me scrutinizing all of the interactions to figure out why someone was saying or doing anything in a good way.

I would recommend it to people that enjoy a murder mystery for sure. It was fantasy without the magic which is a nice break from my typical reads.

Wonderful sequel wrapping up the questions of love vs duty. Murder mystery with well thought out plot. The plot moved quickly with a flow that didn’t waste time or skimp. Cultural examinations as both an outsider and citizen. Both provided explanations, criticisms and significance. Normally I don’t enjoy reading books from a series if I haven’t read the rest but while I would like to enjoy the rest I was able to fill in gaps.

Thank you Bold Strokes Books Inc via NetGalley for the advanced reader copy for a voluntary and honest review

I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.

Cassie and Arian are both having to make decisions that will test them as Cassie who from birth is task in leading her family who wants to alliance with another family to have more power she gets tangled in a murder. Arian loves Cassie and although she understand how Cassie sees in her world she doesn’t like how Cassie is ok with it while she struggles with her own moral code will they both be able to overcome everything to save each other. I enjoy this read political machinations was on point.

A sequel to "A Fox in Shadow;" Arian is still in Kavilli with Cassie. However Cassie's family want an alliance with another family and Cassie has to step up. I was not over impressed with Cassie through a lot of the story. I feel she should have been more loyal to Arian despite her family. However that would probably not have produced what turned out to be quite an engrossing book. Again the political machinations supersede everything in Kavilli.
There is a murder so this brings in a bit of mystery to the storyline. I did like this book, more than the first one actually. The ending could lead to a further sequel (hopefully).