I wasn't a huge fan of the writing, but the story is really interesting. It is incredibly fast paced and doesn't completely explain things in an outright way. WIthin the first few pages it is immediately difficult to like the main character and the inner monolog.

There is a ton to unpack in this book. I LOVE the attention to detail that Ang gives his encounters but I would have liked a map at the beginning of the story to have a visual of the locations that the characters move to and from for proximity. I also felt that a list of the characters and their traits would help with emotional engagement from the perspective of the readers because I felt disconnected. That being said I'm fascinated by Shion's world and would love to know more about his magic, school, and the guards! A prequel on the school alone would be epic! ( )

Wow - did not see that ending coming - but I loved it! The diverse cast of characters being themselves appealed to me. The underlying themes addressed in this book really resonated with me. So many of the issues addressed in the world of the book's society are pertinent to what's going on in our own society at the moment. Looking forward to seeing where the story goes next.

I was intrigued by this book because I usually read fantasy, and this book is supposed to be a fantasy and horror book. It had a compelling premise, but it lacked details in my opinion. The book is written in first person with Shion as the main character. I was a bit confused when one chapter suddenly switched the point of view to another character. It was jarring and felt unnecessary. I wish there had been more explanation of the setting as well as the magic system. I think the book could have been labeled just horror and not fantasy at all. Overall, this book was worth a read, but I'll probably stick to my fantasy only books now.

I received a free copy of this book. My review is honest and freely given.