It was a nice quick read and a sweet story. 

If you want more of the same, check out Princess Jellyfish by Akiko Higashimura. It has the same concept, but set in the modern day.

This book explored the "ancient advanced civilization" trope like Elder Race, but focused in on how the changes made for humanity to thrive were in fact the only way they could survive. 

One of the themes of this story was how easy it is to radicalize people who are outcast from society for one reason or another. I think in today's society, understanding how this works is even more important. 

It tackled quite a bit in such a short story, and I think this book did a good job of balancing its ideas.

I did end up liking Elder Race better, hence the rating. I'm still planning on reading the second book in this series though, so maybe that will affect my impression afterwards.

Realized that this book is more horror than sci-fi. I was really interested in a first contact story. 

It was such a mistake to start this book in the evening! What I intended to be quick reading session turned into a binge as I read into the late hours. 

I had such a good time reading this book!! I love a good odd couple style pairing, and this was so sweet and subtle with how their relationship progressed. The setting was also interesting, separating sorcerers into two categories: scrivers (who write the spells) and casters (who actually cast/use them). It felt fresh and well thought out!

We didn't get a conclusive ending in terms of the relationship, but I'm excited for the next book! I love that this book really took it's time to setup the main duo, and Leo STILL doesn't know that Grimm likes him too. 🤭 I don't think Grimm used that feather at ALL to break the spell, he just fell in love!

This was a surprise hit for me, and I'm dying for the next book. It was a cute M/M cozy fantasy with a slow burn romance, with a well executed plot and nice world-building.

I enjoyed Iron Widow for how fresh and raw it felt as a narrative, though the first book was paced at breakneck speed.

It feels like this book is a response to that first one in so many ways. I enjoyed the slower political machinations and plot twists in this one. I liked all the new characters that are introduced and the increased scope of the world-building.  Thoroughly enjoyed this one, and I'll be eagerly awaiting the next book!