For a debut novel, I'm super impressed. I can't believe I hadn't read this sooner and I loved the fairytale/fantasy combination. I thought the beginning was a little slow and it took me a bit to get into the story, but once it picked up I was hooked. Something about Schwab's writing for standalones is so lovely and lyrical and I quite enjoyed that. I liked the little setting of Near and how all the events were tied together. Lexi and Cole were a nice contrast for each other and it was fun to see their story develop in the background. Some of the events definitely felt spooky but I thought they were well done. Overall, I enjoyed this book and I pretty much love anything from her, so I'm not surprised.