I've had this book on my TBR list since it was first published and now that I've gotten the chance to read it, I can't believe it took me this long.

When I first started the book, the writing style bothered me. Firstly because it was written in 1st POV and present tense, but also because the writing seemed too simple. I felt like Boecker was telling me a story more than she was showing me how the story played out. The dialogue occasionallyfelt inorganic and the actions of the characters felt awkward at times. I was able to predict almost every plot twist Boecker was going to throw at me.

And yet, I found myself unable to put the book down. Elizabeth was a character that I didn't necessarily identify with, but she was definitely someone I could sympathize with. Her internal conflict throughout the story felt real to me. Her relationship with Caleb, with John, with the magical world all felt like they belonged. She didn't seem out-of-character at all, at least not her actions and reactions. The plot felt simple in a very complex way, like the readers were supposed to be able to figure out every twist just before the truth was revealed.

All in all, I feel like Boecker did a really good job with this book. Her worldbuilding felt consistent through, and though her characters sometimes felt awkward and lanky, they didn't take away from the story or pull me out of the narrative. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to get my hands on the sequel!