The Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa

Book Summery:
Half Summer faery princess, half human, Meghan has never fit in anywhere. Deserted by the Winter prince she thought loved her, she is prisoner to the Winter faery queen. As war looms between Summer and Winter, Meghan knows that the real danger comes from the Iron Fey, iron-bound faeries that only she and her absent prince have seen. But no one believes her. Worse, Meghan's own fey powers have been cut off. She's alone in Faery with only her wits for help. Trusting anyone would be foolish. Trusting a seeming traitor could be deadly. But even as she grows a backbone of iron, Meghan can't help but hear the whispers of longing in her all-too-human heart. -goodreads.com

Book Review:
I read Kagawa's The Iron King in March (review found here). Shortly after I started reading, I knew that I had entered a world of magic, forbidden love, and horror. One that I was eager to return to immediately. Lo and behold, Kagawa released The Iron Daughter this month! What luck! Shortly before The Iron Daughter was offically released, the floodgates of the blogosphere opened, pouring out rave reviews of Kawaga's second installment. Before long, I was able to get my fevered hands on a copy of my own, and thus I re-entered Kawaga's majestical faery realm. I was not disappointed!

My first impression was that Meghan has matured (yay!) in most aspects! She was more independent, deceive, and overall vibrant. I enjoyed this new aspect of her very much. Her downfall, I think, is her unwavering love of Ash. Ash really annoyed me in this book, though there are certain redeeming qualities sprinkled throughout the story. Overall, their romance reminded me of the Bella-Edward syndrome from Twilight. That's really my only qualm with this book. I loved Puck's plucky attitude and steadfast devotion. I also enjoyed meeting some new characters and well as the return of some old favorites. I am head-over-heals in love with Grimalkin! He is such a tenacious and crafty cat! Some wonderful new characters that I just adored include Leanansidhe, Kimi, and the phouka Tiaothin. There are several others that I would like to mention, but I don't want to ruin the story for those who plan on reading the book. ;)
Overall, I enjoyed this second quest through the Nevernever immensely. I highly anticipate Kagawa's third installment, The Iron Queen, which is to be released in February 2011. The story of Meghan, Ash, and Puck (as well as the faery folk previously mentioned) is far from over! In need of more faery facts or information regarding the books? Head on over to Julie Kagawa's website.

Favorite Quote:

"I'm afraid you've walked nose first into a trap, m'dears," she gloated as we tensed, ready to run or fight. "Oh, but you don't want to rush off now. I have one last little surprise for you." She giggled and snapped her fingers. The door behind her creased , and a dark figure stepped into the room, coming to stand behind the chair. This time, my heart dropped to my toes and stayed there. (p. 233).

Cover Art Commentary:
Lovely, lovely, lovely. I just love the covers to this series! I particularly like the color-scheme. I have a soft spot for purple! :) The icy undertone of this cover has a unique meaning to the story as well! ;)

Overall Rating: