This is the sequel to Throne of Swans, which I read as an ARC at the start of 2020, so it seems fitting to read Crown of Talons as an ARC at the end of the year.
A lot happens in this book, and honestly we got to about 80 pages from the end and I couldn't see how this would wrap up. I feel that it could have benefited from being a trilogy, as there is so much build up in this book that the actual battle for the Throne is very quick and takes place over just a couple chapters, I'd have loved to have seen more of this.
I felt a bit irritated with Aderyn as a typical YA female protagonist, who with zero training becomes the best at everything- can we please just have our protagonists either have skills, or let someone else fight? Also the double crosses, and triple crosses and honestly I can't keep up who's good or bad. Lucian and Veron particularly swung to and fro like a pair of undecided yo-yos. A double cross is great, but having them come back, then go again, then come back, then go gets tired.

I realise that this review isn't looking too positive, however, I did really enjoy the book. Its such a unique magic system and I loved the politics. I really enjoyed that as queen, Aderyn was still unable to change things- because that shows a fair democracy, and a good leader. I love her relationship with Letya, and I loved Aron's and Valentin's relationship.
It's an easy, quick read and goes on my list of great duologies