The second book in the trilogy, The Novice, as the title suggests, follows Sonea’s training as a magician. Her background as a slum dweller makes it difficult for her to fit in with the other novices, who take to picking on her. In the meantime, one of her allies, Lord Dannyl, is promoted to Guild Ambassador and sent on a secret mission to trace a journey the High Lord made years ago. It is hoped Lord Dannyl might uncover the origins of some of the High Lord’s dubious activities.

Thankfully, this was a much better book than the last one. The characters are much stronger and actually grow a little, particularly Dannyl. The plot is still a bit predictable in places and parts of it reminded me a bit of Harry Potter. In fact Regin reminded me strongly of Draco Malfoy from time to time. Nevertheless, the depiction of Sonea’s victimisation was well done and quite strong. The universtiy also came across very vividly.

All in all, a much more polished effort than the last book.