I enjoyed this story, almost enough to give it five stars. The protagonist was sympathetic, the pacing was tight, and the world-building (at least by the end) was original and compelling. If book two had been available I would have happily continued without a break.

I'm a fan of time looping or reincarnation novels. This is a good example of the sub-genre. Micah, the protagonist, is facing a challenge that would be impossible to overcome with normal means. He must utilize his knowledge of the future as well as skills gained over multiple loops to make it past even the first obstacle. That's what I like... Using a hidden cheat for moral ends.

It's also refreshing to see the main character make mistakes, both large and small. So much of modern fantasy is hampered by perfect heroes that simply represent the author's wish-fulfillment. In fact, one of Micah's whole repeats is a mistake, which he can only try to out-last. For the reader, this loop served as a glimpse of the corruption beneath the surface of his society. Adding to the sense of veracity.

I can't wait to see where this leads.