This was a delightful book! I am always a sucker for a school/training/trials fantasy book, especially to kick off a series and this one was a lot of fun.  I so enjoyed the fact that instead of warrior training, this is an engineering guild, so we get to read about the different cool inventions and ideas that Ying has.  Ying is a fantastic MC who is smart and brave and has SO much growth throughout this book. And all while being an underdog trying to avenge her father and learn secrets from the past - that is always a win.  I also really appreciated how the gender-swap / disguise was really well done; obviously a big part of the book but not the biggest and not overly dramatic. There are also political intrigue and interesting dynamics with the leaders and royal family.  Of course many gasp worthy moments and a Even with all the drama and trauma, it still felt almost like a fantasy hug, just all the best elements from a YA fantasy book in an easy to follow story that you can get lost in.

Note: I listened to the audiobook and HIGHLY recommend that version!