I didn't realize how much I was missing high fantasy until I picked this one up after months of telling myself "I'll read it next!" Islington has given us such a phenomenally written novel that I am truly finding it hard to put into words how much I enjoyed it. From the complex and flawed characters, to the gorgeous world building, to the incredible magic system, this book is so well planned and executed that it soared to the top of my favorites list immediately. In fact, it might just be THE best book I read this year. 

Vis is an orphan, filled with vengeance and on the run, doing his best to survive in a society where everyone must eventually cede their strength, their focus, their Will, to the Empire. It's a hierarchy where those below are slowly drained of life, and those at the top seem to do little more than hoard power. When Vis find himself with a spot in Catenan Academy, the Empire's elite school where the next generation of Senators are trained, he knows this is an opportunity he cannot waste. Yet his time at the Academy will be far from easy, for his entry came with a price, and Vis has no choice but to hold up his end of the bargain. 

The ending had me literally vibrating from 50% glee and 50% "oh sh*t" vibes. I don't want to rush sequel because this series is a masterpiece and those take time, but just know I will be setting my hands on a copy of book two as soon as I possibly can, and yelling about book one to literally everyone I know up until then. 

If you like scrappy and smart main characters, cutthroat schools, seemingly impossible tests, and cool and unique magic, then I urge you to give this book a chance. Don't let the length deter you!