I really enjoyed this book -- the ancestral tradition of magic; the personification of the houses of various families and what they stand for and the magical Butlers who keep the houses fantastical; family traditions of specific life plans (i.e. Fyrdraaca's go into the military); Flora's mother's rejection of magic in her home and life, leading Flora to discover and follow curiosity on her own ... and leading female characters who exhibit strength and can stand alone, even though Flora's best friend, Udo, is a guy, he's like a best friend side-kick of sorts.

Can't wait to read on in the trilogy!

*This story reminded me a bit of the Abhorsen Trilogy by Garth Nix -- female lead, magic, family tradition, ancestral house/land and tradition of adult paths, etc. -- which are AMAZING.