I think the concept of this was unique and interesting, and I really found the entire concept facsinating. The idea of spiders spreading curses is something I haven't seen in YA fantasy before, and Hardinge has a sort of whimsy about her writing that feels like a fairy tale. Objectively, the book is well written and fans of Hardinge's other books will definitely enjoy this one.

However, I just didn't really connect with the overall story. I don't know if it was the characters or the main conflict or what. It was enjoyable while I was listening to it, but it's likely not a book that I'll visit again.