I liked this book, but it definitely feels YA. I could never get 100% past that and immerse myself in the story, but it was dark and brooding and fairly gory for what it was. I enjoyed the worldbuilding.

I liked the characters. Or liked to dislike some of them. They were all distinct and interesting. MacTavish is a good…hm…side character? Alistair is also fun, especially during his pathetic moments.

I do hope Hendry somehow makes it out of this…my baby boy…both of these brothers are just absolute sopping wet little meow meows.

The plot gets a little iffy. It’s where the YA of the book is the most visible imo. The book overall is fine - we do get some answers - but it’s not enough to feel satisfied with the plot by the end. There is just so much going on that is not resolved. 

I will be reading the second book despite all qualms. The writing and characters and world pulled me through. Hope the duology ends on a banger.