ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.

I really liked the way this book picked up BUT it picked up way to late for me. I had a hard time getting into this story for about 70% of it and I just couldn’t let that go when it finally got super exciting. My first few problems are the Spares. Honestly the whole thing was so confusing and then it just hit as a huge plot point. It would have been fine but, nothing led up to it, and it was also super obvious to figure out once the whole “turning point of the novel” happens. Considering that the whole government and world in general was just not very well explained didn’t help when it came to figuring out the “rot”.

Also, let’s talk about how Lower Sacara knows so much comparatively (cooking mushrooms) but can’t figure out how to clean to keep lower city free from rot? I just… how even does that work out? It seems like a weird plot hole to have.

Speaking of plot holes, I’m still unsure how killing someone makes you homicidal? That was never explained and I felt like the end of the book was just used to further engage the reader. I’m sure it’ll be explained soon, but a hint would have been great.

I really loved the use of mushrooms in this, it’s a great way of comparing government neglect to a natural cycle and I’m just super interested to go further with this series.