This book had an intriguing concept, but I feel like it wasn't allowed to meet its full potential.

Many of the character decisions felt childish, even when it was an adult making those decisions.

I was genuinely confused about the genre and had to look it up because it felt more like middle grade (but condescending in its simplicity at times) but it featured language and a couple adult themes.

The plot wandered at times and skimmed over important moments at others.

This book wasn't for me, unfortunately.

Thank you to Xpresso Book Tours and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This book had a lot darker undertones than I had originally anticipated! I enjoyed the magic system a lot and the different concepts at play. Some parts felt very similar to many other YA books of a young person learning they have a ton of power, but Etar was an enjoyable protagonist to follow.

My biggest challenge with this book was a disconnect within the dialogue between characters. A lot of the language used by characters when speaking seemed to be in direct contrast to the apparent setting of the novel, and it really took me out of the story at some points.

While the characters were each quite interesting and I was rooting for them, they didn’t necessarily act like the ages they were described as being. Jossan in particular came across as SO much younger than being a fully fledged adult.

Overall, an interesting concept with a story that takes some big swings. 3⭐️