I've heard so about this series and "omg, the darkling is sooo hot" so obviously I needed to know what was up. I liked Alina a lot and I liked her dynamic with Genya and the darkling until... (If you know, you know.) I also loved the world building, the magic system, the political intrigue. I also felt like the pacing was pretty consistent and I didn't get bored. I have high hopes for book 2!!