I'm not the target audience probably for this book. There were a few theological things that she believes that I don't necessarily align with. By the grace of God I haven't lost faith in God, but my faith has definitely ebbed and flowed and so if you are someone who is deconstructing or looking for Jesus but don't feel like you belong in a church, I think this book would be a balm to your soul. If it draws you nearer to Christ, know that he is always with you, and that everything is super complex. Chapters 7 and 11 stood out the most to me.
I honestly don't really like Nesta that much, even with her growth... I really felt like it was so unnecessarily (and cringe-y) smutty and I felt like there was SO many questions left unanswered.
All this aside I still love the world they're in and I still devoured this book.
The pacing was so odd toward the end where all the action was, it's like she ran out of time or put way too much effort on parts that I found NOT necessary at all, yet didn't devote enough time to the last 100 pages which was so intense and needed way more detail. Anyway, can't wait for the next book! I am totally sucked into the Maasverse and Romantasy as a genre. Even if I think the writing could honestly be way better, I don't discredit how addictive it is lol.
It was decent. I honestly learned a few things but found it very dry. As a professional planner I truly appreciate the thoughtfulness that goes into a gathering, but also think some gatherings don't need to be overthought. Basically, gathering should go well if you're a great human who actually cares about people...
It did feel overwritten, very not an exciting read despite this being my job, but I finished it nonetheless!
I love James McBride's writing style. Every word is intentional and although not that easy to skim, it really forces you to slow down and take in every word. He's gifted in how he makes such FUN, memorable, and quirky characters. This was a unique read that I found delightful, especially the ant subplot.