I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Wow. I had no idea how much I needed a YA fantasy filled with court intrigue and romance to fill the void left by Sarah Maas and her Court of Thorns and Roses series, but this really did it for me.

When I started the book and Alessandra was plotting a way to get close to the Shadow King to later kill him, I wasn't sure how much I'd be able to relate to her and her "questionable morals" (per Tricia Levenseller). The way the Shadow King (aka Kallias) initially kept her and everyone else at a distance also made me question how well I'd be able to relate to him. Ultimately, however, both characters kept their unapologetically rebellious and devious streaks while also getting me (and likely other readers) to fall in love with them. The development of their relationship had an unexpected depth and tenderness amidst the murder plots, and I really enjoyed the other friendships (like Hestia and Rhoda) that kept Alessandra grounded throughout the story.

Also, if you're worried about waiting for the next book, this one is a standalone--binge away!