This didn't quite hit as hard as it did when I was 12, which is understandable. I can forgive the drama over communication misunderstandings though. The characters are still very young and haven't had great experiences socialising so far. 

The worldbuilding opens up even more here, with some interesting villains that are less cartoonish than the first book. It's a real shame there's no TV adaptation because it would work really well. The creepiness and horror of Stalker Fang still gives me the shivers. 

This book is a bit of a bridge in terms of plot and character growth. It sets up the factions for the final instalments and moves Tom and Hester along into adulthood. The plot developments with their relationship are a little cheesy at the end there, but I can deal. I always liked the vast scope of this series.