This book grabbed me IMMEDIATELY. No slow start, no dragging setup, just straight into the world and vibes from page one.

This was genuinely beautiful. The writing had such an atmospheric feel to it (ghostly dark academia with witchy eerie vibes and portals and magic but like... in a fun paranormal way), and all the characters felt really distinct and alive.

The world itself felt super original to me too. Witches and shapeshifters exist, but not in the usual mainstream fantasy way, and then there are the night kin — people who die but don’t fully stay dead. Emrys is a revenant, basically this sad ghost/zombie hybrid who died at 17 and stayed emotionally stuck there despite existing undead for 157 years. This was quite interesting to explore. He lives in this massive library with other revenants, helping college students while being monitored by the Merlin Order that keeps track of supernatural creatures.
Then a brand new revenant appears for the first time in forever, and Emrys and his academic rival Aubrey both want the position of tutor/guide for them. However, the plot pops off and you're taken on an adventure and a spin through this magnificent world.

But honestly, the romance was my favorite part. It’s such a patient, gentle journey of self discovery and learning to let yourself want things despite fear, grief, or the possibility of getting hurt. It was soft in a way that made me absolutely swoon.

I also had no idea this had LGBTQ+ rep going in, and genuinely, I would’ve picked it up sooner if I had known because it was done SO well.

This book was made for me. Loved this from start to finish and I already know I want to revisit this world - in new and already published books.

Thank you Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for the eARC! This review reflects my own opinions.