A unique and immersive fantasy set in a world that feels both familiar and completely foreign. In this universe, God shattered the world into floating arks, each with its own customs, magic, and ruling spirits. Ophelia, a quiet and unassuming young woman with the ability to read the history of objects by touch and travel through mirrors, is sent to the distant Pole for an arranged marriage to Thorn, the ark’s treasurer.

From the start, Ophelia feels out of place and unimportant, especially among those with far more powerful abilities. The Pole is a cold and dangerous world, full of deception, hidden agendas, and political intrigue, and Ophelia quickly learns that no one is as they seem. She’s caught in a web of manipulation, where even those she trusts might betray her, but she also finds unexpected allies along the way.

I flew through this book in just a couple of sittings. It has an Alice in Wonderland vibe—a world that mirrors our own but is distorted by illusions and secrecy. The writing is rich and atmospheric, and Christelle Dabos does a fantastic job of bringing the setting and characters to life.

Why not 5 stars? While the world-building was incredible, the pacing dragged at times, and Ophelia, though compelling, often felt frustratingly passive. That being said, I’m excited to see how she grows in the next books, and I hope we see more of the side characters and Ophelia’s family as the series continues!

⭐ 4 stars!

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