I don't understand what it is about this series that keeps me from feeling like it is fantastic. I'm unable to put my finger on it. For now, I'll say I did like it a lot but was also reserved in my enjoyment - didn't feel the need to rush to the next chapter to find out what happens (with a few exceptions).

The story is believable - perhaps I should say, well grounded in what feels like a real world. Well constructed I guess? for the most part it feels like any and all of this could happen with the set pieces in play and the cultures involved. I never felt like a plot that came to a climax was cheap or forced. Perhaps its the opposite - everything feels like it was planned by the author and explained why it was happening eventually. I did have moments where I wasn't quite connecting the dots on the meta level for politics between factions but I don't think you really need to keep that map in your head. The author usually shows you why an event is important eventually.

Characters were likable and consistent to their growth and personalities - there were some pretty crazy actions taken by the cast of this book and the consequences of those actions fit the story well, but maybe this is the first time I think a TV series might be able to convey the impact of these choices and events on characters better than the written word. I feel like I need to see the character's face while they read an aura or something. There is a lot going on with Jade senses that is easily explained on a page, but hard to experience for me personally without a real person bringing it to life in front of me. Perhaps that's my lack of imagination? or maybe its the fault of the writing? I honestly can't say. Some of the moments in this book had me legitimately feeling emotions for the characters and I think the author did a fantastic job laying out how the characters in the aftermath of events were feeling. I think this book actually improved on that aspect over the last two.

The magic system is extremely functional and consistent - but it also lacks depth. Another thing that would translate so much better to a show with a budget and talented actors/stunt people. I would call this book low-magic even though its literally everywhere and shapes the entire culture. Perhaps that simplifies it too much, but the magic in this series never really goes beyond what kung-fu movies have done in the past with a few exceptions. That isn't even a criticism, just never felt wowed by it beyond a few big moments. And I don't think i was supposed to be in awe of it, unless the characters involved were also meant to be in awe.

All in all its actually a good series but I cant place what i felt was missing. I think i was more excited by the theme than the story I guess.