The first half of this book is Tom Riddle fanfiction. It was thoroughly enjoyable, however if you are incredibly family with Riddle’s story, the first 50% follows that almost exactly beat for beat.

The second half of this book seemed to really be where it came into its own. The government and political sphere became much more important and made it clear this was more than just the Harry Potter universe, however if this creativity was sprinkled throughout the first half I think it would have made a more cohesive story. 

What I think is interesting is how Mal is differentiated from Tom Riddle. While he certainly isn’t all green flags, I felt as if he was written in a way that embodied a dark morally grey character, while still giving enough to latch onto that would not dissuade a reader from liking him. 

All in all it was an incredibly fun read and I am looking forward to book two. I have a feeling that it will rely on more original world building that will truly showcase the author’s strengths.