This book was magical, enticing, and beautifully dark. There are so many things to love about this book; high fantasy, gods, blood magic, morally grey characters, enemies-to-lovers just to name a few. From the first page you are thrown right into the centuries-long war between Kalyazin and Tranavia. The world building was impeccable and the character development was [fill in blank]. It was fascinating to watch the story unfold as Nadya, Serefin, and Malachiasz each fight for what they think will end the war and save their respective country’s. Sprinkle in some spiritual enlightenment, forbidden romance, daddy issues, and betrayal and you’ve got one hell of a story. There were a few little moments I really enjoyed. Like, when Malachiasz is complimenting Nadya and calls her lovely, and unsure of how to deal with his flirting, she just runs away. Or how Nadya continuously thinks of Malachiasz as a “strange, beautiful boy.” The unveiling of secrets and plot twists always had me on the edge of my seat. Some of the names were a little crazy and there were a few times where the writing was a little confusing or sudden. But overall I did love this book.
Not only was the book amazing to read but look how beautiful this book is. Amazing cover (with or without the sleeve), lovely endsheets, stunningly detailed map, and bold chapter pages.
