Ranger's Apprentice Book 2: The Burning Bridge

By John Flanagan

First off, I enjoyed this book much more than the first in this series. This may be because I  knew what to expect, especially considering the style of writing. Also, a huge point of note; the book is better than its predecessor because the women in the book show more gusto, capability, and positive features beyond a pretty face -especially noting Evelynn/Cassandra. Princess Cassandra shows great duty and responsibility to her kingdom (even though it is truly her kingdom), when she is risking her life on that bridge and then ultimately gets captured with Will. She continues to show immense strength when reassuring Will as they travel with the Skandians. She is an admirable character and for that development I am grateful.

The dynamic of Horace and Will is more fun, playful, and aging quite nicely. Their brotherhood is endearing and enjoyable to read.

I find myself desperately wanting to know more about Halt and Lady Pauline. Not  in a mushy way, but the story still. Maybe from alternating perspectives between the two parties.

I still love Tug so so so much. Best horse. Abelard is a close second place for Most Awesome Horse.

Great surprise was in store for me from the Skandians and their prisoner/hostage management. I could not have anticipated the Skandians being the more reasonable and preferable option for Will and Evelyn. Ultimately acceptable and plausible for the plot lines to occur as they did. 

While in a momentary pause I noted a few things I desired the conclusion to include:

• More Halt 
• Evelynn/Cassandra to be good friends with Horace and Will, but not a love triangle between Cassandra, Alyss, and Will. That will just be annoying. One is a childhood friend and developing love interest and the other is intelligent and kind and we are just getting to know her- and she's the princess of the whole kingdom... I hope it doesn't go down that path.
• Gilian and Halt saving Will

The real conclusion really threw me for a loop. I really did not anticipate Horace to challenge Morgarath- but I bet that was the point. And knowing that this series has about 12 or 13 books truly lead me to believe that Morgarath was a long-time villain... not just a two book cruel man. His death was not anticipated. What was anticipated was Will and Evelyn being lost at sea in the end. 

I will likely read one more in the series. (The third book stares at me now from my shelf.)

Happy Reading, Bookworms!