Member Review

Lando is a shapeshifter who can't shift or access their magic. If that weren't enough to make them an outsider in their magical college, their girlfriend just died, and everyone blames them, including themselves. Enter charming new guy, Bastian, who doesn't just talk to Lando like they're interested in them; he also comes with a proposition: a resurrection spell to bring back Elizabeth. But as they risk their lives getting the ingredients for the spell and Lando starts to develop feelings for Bastian, Lando starts to discover things that make them question what Bastian's goal truly is.

I'm having a really hard time deciding how I feel about this book. It has adventure and magic and gender exploration, the likes of which I never thought we'd see in print. It also has a super gloomy mood that, although justified, is a dark cloud of sadness that permeates even the happiest moments. It's authentic writing that puts you right where Lando is and makes it easy to understand where they are as the book progresses, but it becomes a bummer to read.

On the more positive side, the character development is top-notch. There's something really satisfying about Lando slowly coming out of their depressed shell and finding their voice and confidence. Bastian and the mistaken belief that resurrecting Elizabeth will make everything better are what starts them on their journey, but it eventually becomes about finding answers for themselves that leads them to their happiness.

Overall, it's a straightforward plot with lots of complex emotions to elevate it. Not the happiest of books, but a great read if you're looking to connect with the story.

Thank you to NetGalley and Wednesday Books for the early read!