This book was so much fun to read!! 4.5 stars. It gripped my from the first chapter and was just in a constant state of motion, keeping my jumping from one page to the next like my life depended on it.

Amora Montara has spent her life training to become the heir of the High Animancer of Visidia, the master of soul magic. To secure her position, she must put on the most important demonstration of her life. But when that goes disastrously wrong, Amora forges a deal with the dashing, mysterious, and handsome pirate Bastian and flees for her life.

As she sails the islands that make up her kingdom, Amora discovers a dangerous enemy and new magic that may just spell the end for her kingdom and life as they know it. Amora must conquer all the dangers she faces beside a crew she never imagined she'd be a part of, or risk the fate of all of Visidia.

Okay, where to even begin? One of the most important parts of any story to me are the characters. If I don't find myself attached to the characters then I will be hard-pressed to enjoy the book. I LOVED these characters. They are well-written, developed, they all are distinct, with their own personalities and quirks that really make them fun to read. Amora herself is starting on an exciting path of growth, blossoming from a girl who thinks she knows everything, but when her truth is shattered, rather than be overwhelmed, she gets down to business to fix things and accepts that responsibility. I really admired that about her.
Our supporting cast, Bastian, Ferrick, and Vataea are all compelling (Especially this swoon-worthy Bastian *insert heart eyes here*)

I thought the world and kingdom, while I've seen plenty split into regions by magic or element, was still unique and different enough to feel like a new world I haven't been to before, which is not always easy to do. The history was rich and lent itself to making Visidia seem like a concrete place. I also was a fan of the magic system! I look forward to learning more about it and the way it will be changing in the upcoming book.

Overall, this was definitely a great book. I'd give it 4.5 stars. I 100% will be looking forward to the next installment. It kept me hooked with a fast-paced, exciting plot, engaging characters, and colorful world. There was even a little bit of a twist that I didn't see coming (which, again, is hard to do- I tend to see things coming a mile off in most stories). Definitely recommend this!!

Thank you to NetGalley and Imprint for the free e-arc I received for an honest review.