This book is genius! Every inch of it is wafting with the sweet perfume of meticulous research and immense ingenuity.

These characters are the absolute best of friends, and I hate them for making me ache and break so much. Their love for each other will be the death of me, and my last words will be, “Thank you.” All of the main characters have such distinct personalities that complement one another so well! The interactions between them leave me perfectly satisfied every time.

Stepping into the setting of this book was as easy as slipping into a warm bath that smells of roses, surrounded by candlelight. I was completely submerged and transported. I smelled every scent, tasted every meal, and heard every sound. Chokshi clearly did her research and it showed. Everything felt like turn-of-century Paris, even the tiniest details (for better or worse).

The magic system was especially creative and intricate. It is clear that some serious thought went into planning it. It all felt very scientific, which is something I’m unused to seeing in a fantasy novel. It made the magic seem even more believable and grounded. I loved the incorporation of various mythologies, as well. As for the specifics, I am very intrigued by the mind affinity which did not get much of a focus in this one, so I hope we can learn more about it in The Silvered Serpents!

Lastly, the puzzles! They were so clever and fun. I’ve always enjoyed books focusing on riddles and puzzles, but this book pulled it off so well and in such a new way. I can’t wait to see what other mind-benders Chokshi will think up next!

Overall, this was a successful and refreshing contribution to the YA Fantasy genre, and I need the sequel. Right. Now.