Haunting and beautiful. V.E. Schwab is a master of atmospheric writing. The illustrations are gorgeous

and I loved the way they eventually integrate into the story

Equally as thrilling and interesting as book one. Can’t wait for the next one.

There were parts when the mystery got a bit convoluted and the very end felt a bit rushed.

I did not like the writing style or pacing of these books. The way the story is written makes it hard to follow, and I found the writing to be repetitive and boring. I found myself having to constantly re-read paragraphs, but at the same time not really caring about what I was reading. Ultimately I did not care for Juliette and Roma’s relationship. After finishing the first book I found myself wondering why it is I just didn’t seem to really *get* their relationship - supposedly this is enemies to lovers (which is my favorite trope btw) but beyond this giant familial rivalry which is described over and over again I honestly did not feel enough tension or hatred between them to build up and make me care about them ending up together. I did not find either Juliette or Roma to be very complex and therefore their relationship was not impactful. 
Throughout both books I was way more interested in the secondary characters: Benedikt and Marshall and Kathleen in particular. I found myself wishing for more time spent with these characters and their journey, struggles and development. To me, Kathleen is the real intriguing character of the series - she is way smarter, complex and ultimately I think more badass than Juliette.

I also did not really understand the monster/plague thing, once they figured it out at the end. The storyline here was confusing, and again I felt myself not really caring about it.

Loved the short chapters. Mystery, intrigue. Will continue the series.

I really liked it but it felt a bit long

Such a necessary book for a ya audience (or anyone tbh). It was such a fun read!!

Kind of enemies to lovers, more like rivals to lovers.

Beautiful illustrations

This goes on my list of all time favorites. I cannot believe how much I loved this book ;)