I picked this book up on a whim at the library because of the cover. I do not typically read a lot of paranormal fiction, but I thought an alternate universe might be fun so I would give it a try. Once I read the opening paragraph I knew I was in for a treat. There was humor and excellent writing as well as fully developed characters. I certainly hope that there will be more in the series - Rutkoski left it wide open so I am sure that there will be more. The pages fairly flew by so it didn't even seem like a 400 page novel although the ending was very rushed.

The one thing I would change if I could was the instant memory recall on the part of the protagonist. She has one conversation and bam recalls everything. It was a little too convenient.

The inclusion of "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" was a stroke of brilliance! I love how Rutkoski weaved the poem into the story and really made you think about the poem. Even if you are not familiar with the poem, you really got a sense of what the poem was about and what some of themes of the poem are. I think a reading of the poem beforehand will definitely provide a deeper reading of this book, but it is not necessary.

The pacing of the book was excellent. I never felt the lag that so often happens around the 200 page mark. I kept turning the pages faster and faster waiting to see just where the book was headed. It was a little obvious, but satisfying nonetheless.