I absolutely loved how snarky and rash the main character, Rovan, was. She put up with absolutely no nonsense and did everything she could to defend herself and her family, but ultimately to a fault. The side characters had interesting and intricate personalities, and I loved what each one brought to the story. I honestly want to be friends with Japha pretty badly, haha! I also loved how gender and sexual identities were presented in this book. The ways characters decided to dress, love, and present themselves was heartwarming and refreshing.
I definitely didn't see many of these plot twists coming, and I admittedly screamed out loud in my car a few times! (Audiobook) Also the tension between both Rovan and Lydea, as well as Rovan and Ivrilos kept me on my toes just as much as the dark plot did. The magical system was unique, dark, and lush when paired with the world, and I loved the Roman/Greek style that Thanopolis modeled after. I would gladly read more from this world, but it was a very well done standalone!