surprisingly good??? i did NOT expect the story to be written this way and i LOVED IT it's like puzzle pieces being put back together through murder idk how to explain it but it gave me the same vibes as my favorite books (baccano) and i think it was really well executed! 
so many mysteries all being linked, some being unresolved but not really necessary, it's nice to get open mysteries too when its not the focus of the plot
i have to say the cast of characters is GIGANTIC but!! they're so well written and so realistic you can never forget who they are or what their role is in the story i loved all of them (except these 2 bitches who think they're the Betters)
also the ending ?? unexpected in the most positive way like if it had gone another way i would have just hated it, it made so much sense that this little storyline had this much effect on the story 

i think this book is either hit or miss, it depends of the storytelling people enjoy. if you like character focused stories when they're not really the plot but they kinda are, stories about people living in the aftermath of a revolution that didn't change anything after a year, an evil mastermind that really isn't the main focus but his work is, and getting pieces of information to put together slowly then go for it!!!! 
(yeah and if you hate when magic systems are not explained or clear you will not like some aspects :/)

A well written book but not my type and wish I’d read some content warnings for the casual horror that’s mixed in

It’s not about cats. The cats are basically scenery. It’s so slow, and the characters are flat with little/no growth. If you’re looking for something to test your patience, this is it. You wait and wait while nothing happens for 200 pages and then -bam- it’s over, you get a couple plot points wrapped up (kind of), and you still don’t get the whole cat thing.  I’m just thankful I borrowed it from the library and didn’t pay for it. 

This book is an odd one. The setting felt familiar, like the darkest moments of a Dickens novel seen reflected in a funhouse mirror. The characters, plot, and the world they live in is revealed to the reader one piece at a time. It can be slow going at first, but once you get reading this book, you’ll be hooked. Real and mysterious danger surrounds the characters in this book— especially the streetwise and intelligent Dora. Though dark and at times grisly, there’s no doubt in my mind that King has created a captivating world through thrilling storytelling.  May a cat smile on you, friend.

Vivid and detailed world building. Strong social commentary/political intrigue. Great tension. Characters were charming but not great. Intriguing if convoluted prose (comes across much better on audio I believe.)