There is a thin line between love and hate I think.

Actual stars: 4.2

What I loved: Honestly, from page one this book had me snared. Which is why I finished it in a day. I loved the two main characters, their rivalry, the office, and all the issues they were facing. This book represents what I love in books, two characters who are richly developed and a plot that is complex. Not complicated, but layered. The office, each of their home lives, the greater war around them.

I loved the altered history setting of the early 1900's ... but with gods and monsters.

What I hated: Hate is a strong word here, but I had a hard time with some of the emotional jumps throughout the story. I would have liked more emotional depth (but when do I NOT say this lol, it's a me thing). Most readers will want more world-building, which this has a good amount of, but there are gaps for sure.

Spice level: fade to black, very sweet overall

I recommend this book for anyone who likes historical fantasy, or historical magical-realism, a sweet romance, and a quick-moving plot.

My review system is as follows:

5 stars - unbelievable, I am still talking about it, a book I'll recommend to everyone and refuse to hear any critiques of it (these are very rare)
4 stars - better than a typical read, I'll keep reading the series, really enjoyed but there were some minor issues
3 stars - average read (my most common rating)
2 stars - I didn't enjoy it, but I finished it
1 star - DNF or finished but it was awful