I feel like I've hit a bit of a wall with enjoying the books I've read recently, but this book was a fun and fast paced read.

The way the author used English to mimic how characters would have spoke in other languages was so interesting and gave it a unique quality. The magic system, while similar to others I've read about, still felt different than what I've read before.

I loved that both Zhara and Han had younger siblings that they were fighting to protect. And Xu! I loved Xu, they are probably my favorite character with Yuli coming in close second. Even though there was a romantic subplot with Zhara and Han, the friendship between them and Xu and Jiyi and eventually Yuli felt genuine and just as important as the romance. And the inclusion of queer characters was a delightful surprise.

The writing was a bit repetitive at times, but it didn't take away from my enjoyment of the story.

Thank you to NetGalley for making this available in exchange for an honest review!

The narrator’s voice for sure flowed with the story of this book seamlessly. Painting this world in vivid color in my minds eye.
One of the main things that I love about the narrator, was that she for sure, embodies everything that I loved about this book. The central character Zhara’s kind, and fiery personality to Hans adorable dorky way of flirting to Sajah’s meows and feisty animal attitude. As far as the story goes it for sure was a magical journey of self discovery of strengths and power within oneself.
I absolutely adored this audiobook of what has become one of my favorite books that I read this year. They for sure chose the perfect narrator to tell this magical journey..

Thank you NetGalley & Macmillan Audio for a advanced audio edition of this book in exchange for a honest review.