Windwitch by Susan Dennard

The Witchlands book 2. Pan Macmillan, 2016. ISBN 9781447282310
(Age: 15+) Highly recommended. Fantasy. Windwitch continues the story this time giving more detail about Prince Merik, who is a Windwitch convinced that his sister is not looking after their kingdom. After his ship is blown up and he just escapes with very bad burns, he is ever more certain of her treason and travels to the capital determined to fight for the weak. Meanwhile, Safi has just managed to escape with her life with the Empress of Marstok when they are shipwrecked and Iseult begins the long journey trying to find her. She is able to broker a deal with the Bloodwitch Aeduan and together they follow her trail.
There are many twists and turns in this story, which was not as easy to read as Truthwitch, as it swings from one main character to another in differing chapters. However the reader gets to know the personalities, strengths and weaknesses of the four witches and the geography of the world that they are fighting for. The complex political and power struggles begin to make sense, although Dennard gives a few tantalising glimpses of new characters who are sure to be important.
There are many dangers to face and all four meet them bravely. The reader gets caught up with needing to see Safi and Iseult reunited and to learn how Prince Merik comes to term with the reality of his relations with his sister.
This is engrossing and complex fantasy writing and I can't wait for the next in the series.
There is a site for the book.
Pat Pledger