The book received mostly positive reviews from critics. Andrew Mather, writing for A Quill to Live, described it as an improvement over the first book in the trilogy. He gave it a score of 9/10, highlighting the interactions between complex characters and insightful historical and political commentary.[1] The Fantasy Reviews also considered it an improvement over the first book, noting that the character of Helena had become more complex and the plot's stakes had become higher.[2] Adrian Collins, in a review for Grimdark Magazine, praised the nuanced portrayal of the Sovan Empire's political intrigues and society, comparing the setting to ancient Rome and the Crusader States. Collins gave the book a score of 5/5 points.[3] Kirkus Reviews gave the book a starred review, describing it as "complex and dark historical fantasy series inspired by medieval state-military-church political conflicts."[4]
