There's books that have a confusing -- yet intriguing -- beginning. And then there's this. The New Word Quota is a bit overboard and the worldbuilding and plot setup are so vague as to never feel anything but confusing and convoluted.

But I think the most disappointing thing is that my favorite plotline -- a loner with cripplingly strong empath magic -- felt emotionless, lackluster, and passive.

DNF @ 47%