This book was one of the easiest reads of the year for me, which in a fantasy is really saying something! I love the author's style and the dynamic characters. Before you keep reading- beware of SPOILERS! Sabine's character really feels like Tooley said "she has depression, and it's magic". The story tackled some really intense emotions, and I think that was done really well. However, I do feel a little eh about the way depression was used throughout the story and then became yet another victim of the 'magical cure'. It was done better than most, a mix of acceptance of oneself and the problem having a magical solution. I do think a lot of people will have issue with the depression rep, and it could have been done differently.

It was also really odd for Elodie to be attracted *to* Sabine's sadness. In the way most love interests would describe a character's beauty or strength, she romanticized Sabine's depression.

A depression so bad she couldn't get out of bed, it changed her personality, etc. I also cringe a bit at the way side characters were used to advance a narrative without being truly crafted, to the point where family members are horrid until the plot needs them to not be, or they're wonderful and supportive, until the plot needs them to be horrid. It definitely took something away from the story and I found myself rolling my eyes a bit at it. All of that being said, it was an enjoyable read with some good world building and a compelling plot. I am hopeful in the next book that the supporting cast will get a bit more page time so we cab really connect with them and understand why they are the way they are, outside of the perception of the two POVs.