Brilliant! I read the first one and enjoyed it, but this one is simply astounding. It's completely different, dark and original. It is set in a fantastical world that you just want to know more about. The writing style is beautiful and keeps you captivated throughout.
I will recommend reading the first one as it is also really good and you need it to read this one. As mentioned in some of the other reviews, I would definitely classify it as older than YA though.