This was a really fun read. I can't say that there weren't several times where I felt like it was a redux of Gin Blanco. Toward the beginning, I was really distracted by the similarities. However, the narrative kicked in and I found myself enjoying, DESPITE the likeness.

My Estep has created another magic based world, but this time characters have a "talent" rather than an elemental ability. Once again, we see a town where mob-like families rule the roost and prey on those with fewer resources. Oh, and this time the setting is West Virginia, instead of Kentucky. So, the world is not very different from the world in which Gin lives.

As for the main character of this series, Lila is in many ways like a younger Gin, being just a teenager. She's a plucky orphan whose mother was killed by the top Mob Boss of the town. She is full of bluster and attitude and raw talent. Her profession, however, is that of a thief, rather than assassin, but she is also a trained fighter.

If you look at some details too closely, like why teenagers are acting as bodyguards and high level family representatives, things don't always add up. But, if you are a fan of Gin, you know that you will have to take some logical leaps (because let's face it, the best assassins don't routinely risk themselves by getting up close and personal with their targets). However, just like most of the Elemental Assassins, if you let go, the narrative can be pretty darn enjoyable.