THE FIRST WAS BEST.

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This was cute, don’t get me wrong. But I wish that the first was maybe a touch longer and that this book was nixed.

I didn’t love the drama between Izumi and her love interest. It basically created a filler point to add in a LOVE TRIANGLE that wasn’t necessary and let me feeling eh about the whole thing. Though I admit, I’m a sucker for a good grand gesture and this one was really sweet. Izumi nailed it and I am smitten all over again.

The story was filled with a lot of great coming of age discussions. Growing up and finding the right path. Not getting lost in the shuffle of a life someone else wants for you, etc. I adored all of these conversations and they felt very appropriate for the YA audience (even though we were dealing with royals). There’s good friendship learning moments, tough topics with parents and more. All things I really enjoy about the genre.

A solid read, and a great audiobook. I just think I was particular to the first book (of which I gave five stars). But I’m happy in the end with this duo and look forward to what Emiko Jean writes next!

Overall audience notes:
- YA Romance
- Language: a little
- Romance: one closed door
- Trigger/Content Warnings: sexism, classism, panic disorders and panic attacks, bullying