I really wound up enjoying this read. I really loved how this book combined the merlin elements but also how much this book was so well written. I also loved how this book was really focused on diversity in the story. It was such a fun read. I also really liked how this book combined so many elements like competition but also had such a fun foundation in merlin lore but turning the lore on its head. I also really enjoyed how this book tackled grief and depression. I struggled a bit with with the pacing and also felt like i would liked to see other elements of the main character life, but i will def be checking out book 2!