I really enjoyed this book but felt like the first half was a lot stronger than the second. This might be because I was extremely fascinated and drawn in by the world and the tea aspect of the story in the beginning. 

I also loved seeing how the main character (Ning) discussed her mother and sister and her desperation related to the two of them (for different reasons). Overall, a very solid read and I am excited for the second book because it ends on a cliffhanger!!!!