I admit that I was mostly lured into reading this because of the beautiful striking cover. However, despite having chosen this book for its shiny exterior, I was mostly not disappointed.

Just know that this is standard YA fantasy in the same vein as The Hunger Games, Divergent, and The Lunar Chronicles, all of which deal with an awful society or an unjust big bad, bringing endless amounts of tragedy, violent brutality, and death that you could ever want. Regardless, the heroine was strong, the hero was intriguing, and the supporting cast was worthy enough to root for. 

I can’t say I enjoyed myself because of the very grim subject matter, but the writing was propulsive and there were no frustrating plot holes. I will read the conclusion because I need some of happy (no matter how small) for these beleaguered tragic characters.