I am a big fan of Ms Kenyon's work and have read the 'first' Belador story, to which reference is made in this one. The only reason that I have given this book '4 stars' is that those constant references might leave a reader new to her writing wondering what happened in the past to have the characters where they are in this book.
Heroine: Evalle Kincaid, an 'Alterant', who is constantly concerned that her 'boos' is trying to find an excuse to lock her up, and take away her powers. Given that this would make her an easily caught victim, it is a reasonable concern. It seems someone or something is setting her up for a fall, and she has a very short time to figure out what is going on.
I liked in particular that this book does not have a firm conclusion.It is intended to be part of a series, and this is clear from the ending. I also liked the fact that although this is a large paperback, it does not have big print, which says to me that the author had actually written a good story, and doesn't have to pad it for size.
This book can be read as a standalone, but I think it is better is you have read the first Belador story.