Because I loved [b: The Sparrow|334176|The Sparrow (The Sparrow, #1)|Mary Doria Russell|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1230829367l/334176.SY75.jpg|3349153] so much, I was more disappointed than if I had just read this sequel on its own merits. While this book followed the relevant plot lines to their inevitable conclusion, the methods were a bit contrived, and some of the dramatic points were sucker-punches. All in all, it relied less on character development than the first book, which made it less compelling to read.