There is so much I don't like about this book, but I cannot deny that I was compelled to read it quickly. 

The positive: 
A compelling idea, different enough to catch my eye. The approach to witchcraft is both close to nature and RPG-style wizardry. Grumpy sunshine romance, albeit one of no particular novelty. Female friendship. 

The negative: 
Plot structure is just...not good. Character growth is incredibly weak; saving graces come to easily.

There's a spell that's been known to take three incredibly powerful witches to cast, get Agnieszka and Sarkan do it in about two pages. The reason? Brute strength. 

I can't get behind the convenience. Sarkan and Agnieszka have no reason to be attracted to each other

except the comparison of combining spellcraft together being like sex.

The writing is amateur; it feels like this could have been written by someone in high school. That's not necessarily a bad thing, but given this is marketed towards young adults, it doesn't fit. I don't claim I could do better, but the endorsements by other authors ring false. I understand the device of Sarkan taking the woman to

break their connection to the wood,

but why are they all women? There's a creepiness to Sarkan that isn't rectified. She's 17 for god's sake. The age gap and his nonchelance towards Agnieszka until developing lust left a distaste in my mouth. He's abusive and shows no affection; he doesn't miss her when she's at the court. The explanation of the wood is weak. The magic system is inconsistent.

Verdict: 
I can't believe I'm suggesting this, but this should have been a duology/trilogy. Too much is missing to support the growth of Agnieszka as a witch and a young woman, which only remedied by taking the time to show us challenges she's conquered through more than sheer luck or abrupt understanding. Sarkan's character needs adjustment. I just wanted more from this; it missed its potential. I recommend this book for those who want a very simple fairytale-like story that isn't taxing with world building.