TJ Rose expertly introduces us to relatable and complex characters, with a high likeability. From the food and drinks to the language and mannerisms, you get to know them like they were your friends. Their background is interwoven nicely with the story. It's like they are right in front of you and you are right there with them. They evolve and learn from each other, learn to navigate relationships, friendships and also themselves.

There is delicious and explicit spice. Friends that become family, action and fighting. A lot of Magitech, ghosts and even a magical institute and library. And the romance is totally on another level. This isn't your everyday I love you and want to be with you scene. This is the ultimate red thread, shared soul, a bond so strong it cannot be ignored and cannot exist without the other half. It is so beautiful, so pure.

The world-building is second to none. Not only are the places, buildings, surroundings, transportation, even the sky and air, described so well, they are described in a way that gives you the tip of the iceberg. You don't get overwhelmed by exhaustive descriptions. TJ Rose has wonderfully mastered worldbuilding by giving you just enough to let your imagination do the rest.

I really love the writing style and am totally hooked by the story. And damn me, the ending had me on edge. It was suspenseful, angsty but also so heartfelt. I cannot wait to read the second book, those lumenmotes, shadowmotes and umbraphages have me wanting more. But mostly our quadruplets took hold of me, and I don't want to let go. That's a found family for you.

This was the first book I read from TJ Rose, but 100% sur it won't be the last. Looking forward to the second book, and I really hope I won't have to wait too long.

Thanks to the author TJ Rose  for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC. I read this book as an ARC reader, my opinions are my own and my review is voluntarily.