Where to begin?!

[author:M.E. Vaughan|7372483] has EXCEEDED expectations with this masterpiece of a fantasy tale!

I can't even--

(breaths)

Okay, first thing the characterization of a previous character, whom, in Book 1, I cared little for immediately became a favorite! Arlen effin Zachary is a beautifully tormented character (perhaps even more tormented than my beautiful Rufus?), who is absolutely changed by the end of the book (GODS I WISH I COULD BUT I WON'T SPOIL IT BECAUSE YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK), but the progression is gradual, his torment builds and builds, especially under the watchful eye of the absolutely terrifying Sverrin who, himself, is another tormented character.

What I love about Vaughan's characters is that they are all well-rounded despite their roles, and even if one revolts you, something is uncovered later on that makes you look at that character with new (often sympathetic) eyes. It's a testament to her writing skill that the plot is carried out with this brilliant subtlety and you only wish for it to never end if only because you know something is coming but you do not know what.

It is a brilliantly done second novel that sets up the third excellently as I was breathless at the end, kind of sad at the rather abrupt ending, but only certain that I needed to read Book 3 as soon as possible.

With Fairies, Magic (a la Rufus Merle), tricks, a DRAGON (who doesn't love those?), royal politics, and beautiful friendships abound, Blood of the Delphi is a wonderful journey through Mag Mell, and I'd say my only complaint was that there was only *one* Dragon. ;) Though it's hardly a complaint. ( )