I enjoyed this book more than I expected to, based on reviews. The story was engaging and interesting, and for a dystopian it relied on different themes than we’ve come to expect—war, big brother surveillance, factions, etc. Instead we’re placed in a utopia, where the struggle is mainly within the Scythedom. It’s interesting to look at the taking of lives from different ethical angles, especially when it’s considered a necessary public service.

I also appreciated the slow-burn world building. I would have questions about how things worked, and within a few chapters the answers would be revealed. Sometimes the answers were flimsy, but overall the world was more believable than not.

I came to love the characters, though occasionally found myself feeling as though they were doing uncharacteristic things. Some of the relationships became a little implausible, as well as the growth of ~certain~ characters. The plot would also occasionally skim over things I felt deserved more attention, or stay on trajectories that no longer made complete sense. And as much as I found myself taking note of these moments, I was still able to enjoy myself.

Despite the overall enjoyment factor, I can’t bring myself to give it 4 stars. I felt engaged throughout, and yet there were too many unrealistic moments in both plot and characterization that weren’t fully explored.

While this book could genuinely be a standalone, I have high hopes for the rest of the series....although I haven’t dared to look at the reviews. Fingers crossed.