3.75 stars
This is a beautiful duology that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys fantasy, romance and doesn't hate a love triangle.

The writing was beautiful & I really enjoy this world. Seeing the different kingdoms and magic types is a pleasure. In comparison to book 2, this story is less action packed, and more focused on Xingyin's relationships. While book 1 was a fantasy romance, this book felt like a romance with fantasy elements.
Xinglin struggles with understanding her heart and forgiveness throughout the entire story. She felt emotionally younger in this story. At times the story felt like it was dragging, but we also weren't getting enough depth from characters. I really wanted more from her parents & Liwei. They felt like background characters instead of supporting characters.