[second read, March 2019]

My rating remains 4.5 stars, and although I cringe at some of the things I wrote, I stand by my original review in its entirety.

I’ve read a couple of hundred books since reading this one for the first time, and this reread made me appreciate it more. Schwab is truly brilliant; the world she created is intricate without ever feeling overwhelming, and I’m in awe of the fact that she came up with several languages to use in snippets of conversation. The magic system is complex, as are the characters. I used to hate Holland, and while he’s still not my favorite, I sympathize with him and appreciate the depth of his character.

My favorite part of rereading was the nostalgia. Though the novel certainly has its share of emotional moments, it made me happy to get lost in the story once more. I loved seeing details I remembered connect with others I’d forgotten.

[first read, January 2017]

» 4.5 stars «

WHY DID I NOT READ THIS SOONER??

positives:
- characters. Kell was great, I loved his determination and his attitude. Lila reminded me of Kaz Brekker, and she's totally one of my new favorite characters. I liked that she cross-dressed, because I haven't really seen that very often in stories. She was so epic and sly and I loved her. Rhy was so sweet and flirty and amusing. I liked his dedication to his crown even though it wasn't his yet, and how he truly saw Kell as a brother. Basically the three of them are all precious and wonderful and I'm invested in their lives. I won't say much about the other characters, but I will admit that I hate the Dane twins (or just siblings?) and Holland. Also the former is kind of terrifying.
- setting. I loved how the parallel versions of London were done, and how distinct they were; Grey = mundane, Red = vibrant, White = eerie, and Black = no more. They were all easy to visualize, and I'd like to book an exclusive Antari passage to Red London as soon as possible, please. (Grey and White vacations currently scheduled for never.) I'm curious to see if any other parts of this world will be revealed/explored in later books.
- the magic. I really liked the concept of Antari, with their blood commands and ability to make doors between the Londons. I can't even express how happy I was when I saw "as travars" on the page for the first time, because that phrase is everywhere in the book community. The stone itself was also intriguing, while also creepy. The way it slowly took control, with black veins and black eyes. Creepy, but in a wonderful, detailed, unique way.
- no romance. Do I ship Kell and Lila? Yes. Rhy and Lila? Yes. Will this complicate my emotions? Definitely. But there really wasn't any love or hidden feelings expressed in the story, with the exception of two brief kisses. No, I won't tell who. Mwahahah. (Ignore me, I'm six inside.) As I've said before, I may be a hopeless romantic, but I still enjoy and search for stories without romance.
- other relationships. Kell and Rhy. Kell and the king and queen. Kell and Lila. Rhy and Lila. Rhy and his parents. Lila and Barron. It all warms my heart.
- the twists. It took some time, but once the story picked up I was 100% hooked. Seriously. Over the past couple of days I've been wanting to do nothing but read, though unfortunately that didn't happen. Omg. After about part eight, everything intensified and nothing was for sure. And the last 3-4 parts had me absolutely terrified for everyone, turning pages quickly and reading in literally every spare moment.

negatives:
- the pacing. I liked the story, but I think it took until about part eight for things to really pick up. In this case it doesn't bother me as much, because the world was intricate and I'd been given time to fall in love with other elements. It didn't bore me. But I will say that I think the story could've escalated sooner. Good, yes, but a little bit too slow for my tastes.

Definitely continuing this trilogy!!