I fell in love with this book from the very beginning and totally wish I could be dropped into this world (as a witch, not a shader obvs). Part of me is disappointed this isn’t a series, but I’m also relieved as well - I don’t think future books would hold a flame to this one. Even though it’s a YA book and I’m in my late 30s, there were still so many quotes and bits that I could relate to/my soul needed to hear. I’m so glad I found this in my TBR while trying to finish more of my A-Z challenge. So, sorry The September House, I have a new fav book for this year.

ETA: JUST WHEN I THOUGHT I COULDN’T LOVE THIS BOOK MORE, I DISCOVERED THERE’S A REFERENCE TO THE MOVIE SPEED, ONE OF MY FAVORITE (AND TOTALLY UNDERRATED) MOVIES EVER, IN THE ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 😍😍😍

I LOVED THIS! It was beautiful. The writing was gorgeous and the world building was lush and amazing. I really enjoyed spending time in this world with these characters. And the romance is adorable and sweet. I have zero critiques for this book!

 Overall Thoughts:
⁕ The book is split into 4 sections to reflect 4 seasons. I understand that this is to show how Clara's magic operates and changes, but the quick passage of time sometimes resulted in rushed scenes and passively explaining the action instead of showing it.

⁕ I feel indifferent about the main character but love many of the secondary ones. Each has unique motivations and experiences when it comes to their relationship with Clara that create such interesting dynamics throughout the story. 

⁕ I wish there was more extensive world-building around the history of magic, the founding of the schools, and the conflict between those with magic and those without.

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