This does a great job in creating a magic field book about grief and hope. It uses the young adult elements perfectly and was able to tell a great story that a lot of people will resonate with. The characters felt like real people and they were that they were dealing with grief in a realistic way. It was a fantastic plot, and I enjoyed how good it was written. Kristin Cashore has a great writing style, and I've enjoyed other books by her.

Great writing and intriguing character development set in 2020 and the senior high school class most impacted. I think the reception of this book will hinge on whether 2024 audiences are ready to journey back to 2020 or whether it is too soon.

In this captivating read, the author masterfully weaves a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Through a blend of richly developed characters and a meticulously crafted plot, the book offers a unique exploration of its central themes, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the story's depth and complexity. The narrative is paced perfectly, balancing moments of intense action with thoughtful reflection, ensuring that readers are hooked from the first page to the last. The author's ability to evoke emotion and create a vivid, immersive world is truly remarkable, making this book a must-read for anyone looking for an exceptional literary experience.

Beyond its compelling storyline, the book stands out for its insightful commentary on the human condition, weaving philosophical questions into the fabric of its narrative. The author's skillful use of language not only enriches the text but also elevates the reader's experience, offering new perspectives on familiar themes. Whether it's the intricate dynamics of relationships, the exploration of identity, or the confrontation with ethical dilemmas, this book tackles complex issues with sensitivity and intelligence. It's a testament to the power of storytelling to illuminate the nuances of life, making it a valuable addition to any book lover's collection. Regardless of genre, this is a work that resonates on multiple levels, affirming the enduring impact of well-crafted literature.

Thank you to the publishers, author and NetGalley for the free copy of this book.

I requested this because I love Kristin Cashore's writing and it did NOT disappoint! SO good. This tugged at my heartstrings in all the right ways. While very different from her Graceling series it was beautiful in its own way and so well written. I definitely need this on my shelf for a re-read in the future!

Loved this! Everything Cashore writes is a masterpiece. The writing was beautiful and the story itself was seeping with emotion. I felt so connected to the main character and her journey through grief. I also think the premise around the elections was interesting, something I haven’t seen before.

Fantastic fantasy that’s kinda subtle with it in a way that works utterly gorgeously. Thanks for the arc, would recommend

I loved the story, the world building and meeting the different characters. I felt completely immersed in the story and couldn't stop reading it.

4.25⭐️
Rep: thoracic outlet syndrome, chronic pain

Thank you so much to Penguin Teen and NetGalley for an ARC! Overall, I really enjoyed this.
This is a contemporary novel following Wilhelmina and her family, in the past but also during COVID and the 2020 election, and addressing all those feelings that came with both events. The main focus is on family and friends, which I loved, and while there was a touch of romance, I love that the author chose to make it all about family. This book also touches on grief and the passing of a loved one.
I really loved specifically the focus on Wilhelmina’s relationship with her aunts as well, as this is a relationship you usually don’t see in books. They reminded me of own aunts and so this really touched me!
There is a magical aspect, which at first I thought seemed out of place with the rest of the story, but I really like how it ended.

Overall, I’d definitely recommend this! I really liked the author’s writing style as well.

While this one was not for me necessarily (I'm not a fan of bringing in real world applications to YA- I'm trying to escape it!), it is definitely 100% such an important book. It would be great for high school classrooms to start discussions on some very hard hitting but necessary topics. Mixed with a little magic realism, this touches on the Covid pandemic and the heartbreaking elections that we've sat through and how one girl has dealt with it and finds hope at the end of it all. I recommend it completely, and I would just say that my lower review is a personal preference entirely.

Big thank you NetGalley and to the publisher for the chance to review this book pre-release. This was a much different read than I was expecting, however, I really did enjoy being a part of it. The main character is going through so much turmoil, but the reader really finds themselves connecting throughout it, as so many people imagine where they were, and what their emotions were when a lot of these monumental moments in history were happening. It covers loss, and is done so well and tastefully. Please look for my review around publication week on my IG/TikTok and Goodreads.