Patrícia

This reads just like a studio Ghibli movie - dark yet whimsical with charming yet somewhat caricaturish characters. I really enjoyed it! I can't wait to read the next ones and find out more about Farouque's book and why it's so important to him. Also if Ophelia ever warms up to Thorn and forgives his misdeeds. Although, not gonna lie, I might drop the entire series if it becomes a love triangle story with Archibald 🙃

3.75 stars

Weirdly enough, my favourite part of the book was actually the warfare/political storyline. The romance was okay and had some good moments, but a lot of their dynamics grated on my nerves at times. Especially the constant repetition of phrases from the first book (I didn't count but I think Raihn might have said “there she is” at least 20 times or more). I did like how the story wrapped up though. I was afraid the ending would let me down but thankfully that wasn't the case.

It seems the next book in the series is gonna focus on Mishe and the House of Shadow so I'll be looking forward to that one.

I have so many mixed feelings about this one. It has left me with this unsettling sensation of loss after a grand journey of highs and lows. And yet, I think this will be one of those books that I will return to hoping to find comfort. Not gonna delve much further into it because I don't wanna spoil it for anyone. As polarising as it was, I recommend it wholeheartedly.

This was adorable. Simon is a mess (in a good way) and I love him and his friends. A heartwarming coming of age story about first loves and coming to terms with one's identity. Worth the read!

4.5 stars