The Glass Series by Maria V. Snyder

Storm Glass (Book 1)
by Maria V. Snyder
April 2009
Mira

Opal understands trial by fire.  Now it's time to test her mettle.

Maria Snyder's Glass Series picks up a few years after the Study Series, giving Opal a chance to grow from a frightened, self-conscience girl into a powerful, determined woman . . . who has no idea what to do with not one, not two, but THREE handsome young men all vying for her attention.  After much deliberation she handles this the way I'm sure we all would in such a terrible situation - she simpers and smirks and makes love to them all!  (To quote Mr. Bennett who has no connection to this series apart from his witty insights on love.)  My only consolation after reading three books about a young woman who is all fire and storm when it comes to glass and magic, and all wuss and whine when it comes to men is that in my opinion, she chose correctly.  On page 414 of 424 in book three . . .ah well . . . such is often the nature of happily ever afters.

The best thing about this book is getting to know some of the other old characters better.  Valek, Leif, Janco and Ari all play significant roles in this series - and not as any of Opal's lovers.  Yelena puts in an appearance from time to time as well, but for the most part this is Opal's story.  The plot is intriguing as Opal learns to handle enormous and dangerous amounts of power, both within herself and from within the Council.  If you choose to read this series, do it because you loved some of the old characters or because Opal leaning how to fight dirty and spy is fun to read.  But don't expect the epic, star crossed romance of  Yelena and Valek that we got in the first series.  In a way, I suppose it's nice to see that Snyder can branch out.  Opal's romance is definitely something that falls very far from any trees.  

The Study Series
Poison Study
Magic Study
Fire Study

The Glass Series
Storm Glass
Sea Glass
Spy Glass