I admittedly hate the cover of this book. it is atrocious, awkward, and yes I'm a book cover snob. Especially after how pretty the Tides' covers are. Anyway, it left me hesitant to read it, despite knowing I love Lidell's writing.
So, now that the cover rant is out of the way...
Tracing Shadows was quick and fun. Kali isn't like your normal blushy/blubbering woman masquerading as a man. Though she tries obsessively hard to be seen as a man.
Wil, the Crown Prince, is immature and lofty, but there is a hidden strength that stems from his loyalty to those he loves.
Trace - The King's guard who is MUCH more than meets the eye. He's a little rough around the edges and a main character, but honestly didn't grow on me till about 60% of the way through where we start to understand hide background and secrets.
Leaf- Kali's sister. We don't know a lot about her, but I want to. She has a lot of potential I'd like to see explored in book 2.
Tracing Shadows takes you for a plot twist of sorts near the end. I generally pride myself on guessing the twists, but lordy, I did not guess this one. Oh, but Lidell knows what her readers like, that's for sure. And whoo boy she delivers!
Now that the storyline is all set up, I cannot wait for book 2 in this Duology! I have NO doubts whatsoever that it will be even better than book 1!