A Filipino YA fantasy!? I've been so excited to read this ever since I heard about it, and it delivered and then some on my hopes for a truly Filipino-inspired world. However there were a few key things about the writing that was disappointing.

But first it has to be said - I've never seen my culture used as the very foundation for a story. Barbosa delivers on that, with characters in traditional clothing, differentiating between different groups in the Philippines (hehe the babaylans and Igorot-inspired tattoos made me so happy), weapons like the iconic Kris sword, and incorporating a magic system that's inspired by orasyon (a whispered prayer used as healing in rural Philippines). Every food description or reference made in this world is based on a lifestyle that would be experienced in the Philippines and I loved that. It makes me so happy a fantasy book like this exists for future readers.

The biggest issue for me (and one I worry will deter most readers) is the consistent lack of explanation given to the reader. Unless there is a glossary of some sort in the final edition, most readers unfamiliar with Filipino culture will be lost and not understand a lot of terms used casually in the book. Not only that, but just simple details behind foundational plot points seems to go forgotten. For example, curse marks are a big thing in this book. Narra is shunned for hers, and I'm still not entirely sure what those look like other than they're somewhere around her neck. Are they moles? Fingerprint shaped? Around her collarbones or higher? I couldn't tell you with any certainty. There's also the sudden announcement that in this world, everyone believes in reincarnation and we start getting flashbacks to past lives. Like I'm all for this addition to the plot, but the way it was introduced was so jarring. 

The other main issue I found was pacing. This book takes off at BREAKNECK SPEED and doesn't slow down at any point. From one chapter to the next, something is always happening and both characters and reader can never catch a breath. Because of this, no sort of believable relationships are allowed to grow or deepen between any of the characters. 

However...by the time I hit 50% of the book, I was ADDICTED. I couldn't put it down. Once I just started accepting the jarring plot points and fast pace, I'll admit I found the story very compelling. I think for a YA debut it fits its niche well while also expanding the diversity of the genre. My only worry is most people won't give it a chance because of the previously mentioned issues. I have high hopes for this author as I believe she can only improve, and I would love to see a return to this world.