Firstly I wanna say that the epilogue is *chefs kiss* honestly my favorite part of the book. 

 

This is the second book I have read by this author and I’ve realized she has a knack of writing the kinds of characters that I love. Lots of strong women with distinct and varied personalities, dreams, and motives. 

 

The friendship between the main protagonist and her best friend was particularly well done. It’s always great to see 2 young women lift each other up and love each other without jealousy and competition ruling their dynamic. 

 

I also appreciated the commentary about the deep insecurities, regrets and resentments we carry around with us. There were several scenes where our heroine casts a particular spell that lays bare a person’s innermost truths. I thought they were very perceptive and relatable. 

 

The theme of peace also resonated with me. 

 

So why 3 stars? For me, the pacing was off. Certain parts dragged and others were rushed rushed rushed. But that could just be a personal preference as this is a well beloved book. 

 

My Rating System: 

1. DNF* 

2. I didn’t like it, but I finished it. Don’t recommend. 

3. I liked aspects of it, would recommend to some. 

4. Great book, would recommend to most. 

5. My favorites** 

 

* I don’t rate all DNFs 

 

** subject to bias and not necessarily something I would recommend to others