A solid conclusion to the duology. I got a little tired of the MC rating everyone she sees on how badly she wants to get them in her bed, but I enjoyed the plot twists and creative end. A good mix of humor and stakes kept me invested although I don't know that I'll ever come back for a reread. If you like irreverent/snarky MCs or a good twist on time loops, this is for you.

Full disclosure - I first read this as a preteen a couple decades ago and have reread it and its entire series every few years since. These books are a core reading memory for me so it's likely I am too biased for a proper review. That being said, it's such a good book! Centered on four kids who are brought together due to each having wildly specific magic (thread, weather, plants, and smith magic respectively) and who slowly form a found family by the end. I particularly love this book because there's no romantic sub plots and while the kids get into all sorts of mischief/trouble, the adults in their lives are actually good guardians and not ridiculously oblivious or actively neglectful. The magic systems are both creative and well thought out, and all of the characters are fully formed. The plot is a little bit of an after thought compared to the importance placed on meeting the cast and watching the relationships grow, but I haven't found that to be much of a detractor at any age. This is a fabulous book for young readers and anyone who wants to spend an afternoon with a book that has a little bit of adventure and a lot of comfort. I can't wait for my baby to be old enough to be able to read it at bedtime! One note for the series - the books age up a bit with each, so by the time you get into the second quartet there is more violence and darker themes. I would still let a middle grade reader have them but worth the warning if you're expecting similar stakes all the way through.