“The world is our stage, Demarco. And we've practiced far more than any of them, and they know it.”

This was nothing but a brilliantly done debut, first in the Kingdom of Cards duology from Angeles! Its dazzling world of magicians with atmospheric writing and fantastic layered characters, had me at the edge of my seat the entire time questioning the mystery behind not just the town but the its world and disappearing female magicians. Kallia, the main of this story to say she's strong is definitely an understatement. Seeing her growth and her utter confidence against people always reducing her is so inspiring and how far she's come braving a new more mysterious town than the cage of a club that's been all she's ever known. Though this was her story, I enjoyed the dual pov provided with Demarco and seeing his viewpoint being of one who's seen the world yet lost so much and out to uncover the mystery of the town of Glorian. Not gonna lie the first 40 to 60 percent of the story was a bit slow to me but the strong intrigue in mystery kept it thrilling. Along with delightful characters of Kallia's first friend and assistant, Aaros who's dependable and provides lighthearted relief and Canary, leader of the Conquering Circus who also provides a strong outsider viewpoint in her friendship with Kallia both bonding quickly. The romance between Kallia and Demarco though, just wow they're moments had me absolutely going insane with the push and pull between them and the high stakes as they were partners for the last act of the event of Kallia internally scared of what was to come with Jack's constant threats. Jack was a well written antagonist as he angered me and creeped me out with his actions very manipulative, controlling being as he wanted Kallia to always stay with him. Yet there's still so much unknown about his character. That last chapter was pure chaos that put me through the wringer, I'm picking up When the Night Breaks immediately and I'm very much anxious for what's to come.

“Make no mistake, I know I don't have to prove a single thing to them. What matters most is what I prove to myself. Giving up would be an insult to everything I know I'm capable of. And I've already come this far.”