A Deception of Courts raises the tempo for Robin Icethorn’s war—they’ve broken the court gates, but now they’re fighting gods, demons, and the cracks in alliances they once trusted. Alderson leans into raw stakes and sharp betrayals—some of the best twists land hard, stretches of diplomacy throughout showcase Alderson’s writing. The found-family ties and Duncan’s loyalty shine brightest, though a few side characters don’t get the spotlight they deserve. Definitely upped the stakes with the intense cliffhanger ending on this one!