I hated this at first, then ate it up. The switch up and switch up and switch upof where the plot was heading was refreshing for a YA. It was also delightfully dark for a YA as well. This is my first Holly Black book, mainly  because forever and ever ago I had a weird thing about living fantasy but not wanting to read about fairie/fae. So now, much later in life, as a seasoned fantasy reader, enjoying a fairy book this much is quite a feat. Now, not everything was really surprising, many things were predictable. However, that IS how YA’s generally are— as long as you can think and think critically. The VERY subplot of romance was fun. I almost forgave quicker than Jude ever would but I think that says more about me than her. I see why people that do not read much fantasy would EAT this up. I definitely liked it and enjoyed myself. I was KICKING my feet at the end. 
Also, for those who care about this (like I do): the book is a mix of plot and character because the first half is introducing the enemies & the latter half is political scheming.