I wish I could give this book 10/5 ⭐️ !!!!! I loved it so much, I know I’ll eventually reread it. Nicola Yoon did such an incredible job with this book. I absolutely love Daniel, Natasha, and their journey together. Their individual narrations are perfection, and the little history and science lessons sprinkled in between added so much to the story and my experience as the reader.

The narration style reminded me quite a bit of Frederick Beckman, whose writing I adore. I love when we follow a set of characters, but we also get the story of everyone they interact with as well. It adds so much depth to the story, and it’s so special!

I also adored that Daniel and Natasha were an interracial and intercultural couple, which added so many fun and interesting elements to their story. I don’t think I realized just how bland it can be to read about mostly white people 😅😅 the cultural references were so interesting, and it was a good reminder to further diversify my reading!

Last thing, but there was so much in this story that I could relate to. Not just because I also come from an immigrant family, but Natasha and Daniel and their story reminded me a lot of my husband and I. I felt so seen reading this book, and it was so so special 🩷 obviously I was left in tears at the end!

The okayest book I have read in a long time. It gave me nothing (other than annoyance at Celaena)

Just updating this review post-finishing the series to say that if you did NOT enjoy this first book, SAVE YOURSELF AND STOP NOW!! You don’t need to suffer through the rest of it!! (If you loved it, then I love that for you and please do proceed). But it does not truly get better, and the issues in this first book plague the whole series 🥲

When I first read the description for this book, I really didn’t think it would be my cup of tea. The raving reviews convinced me to give it a go, and I’m so glad that I did!! From the start, the narration is so clever and thoughtful. I was immediately hooked!

The plot and characters took me by surprise so many times, and even during the slower plot moments, Margo’s narration kept me interested. Her narrative voice is so unique, and it really makes the story. I really enjoyed her takes on motherhood, sex work, and life! I cannot recommend this book enough. It’s one I genuinely think any reader would enjoy!