I was into the whole story up to 80 percent through. Fun characters, interesting world and setting, intriguing story/mystery that I was kinda following along with in hope of a grand explanation.

But the end part with Ianthe and the fake Septimus was confusing, and I feel unsatisfied. Gideon was a great character; I'd be sad if she was actually dead, but not sure if I'll pick up the 500+ page sequel to find out.