i really enjoyed reading this book, the characters were great and I really enjoyed the plot. it was a great read and I look forward to more from the author.

This is my first read by this author, and I'm so in love with her storytelling!
This story isn't what I expected (I picked it out of the "romance" section on Netgalley, and it's not the standard bodice-ripper that you find there). I also read fantasy, so this is still in my wheelhouse, but my first "urban fantasy".
I loved the author's style. It was evocative, emotional, compelling, and yet simple. The mannerisms were respectful and self-controlled, almost old-timey or maybe Eastern-ish, and I found that incredibly soothing. People spoke to say intelligent and thoughtful things, there wasn't a wasted word or flamboyant gesture anywhere in the story.
I loved the parts that were set in Harutani; I loved it so much that my *least* favourite thing about the book is the parts that are set OUTSIDE of it. There were SO MANY mysteries left unpacked - what was the magic of the valley? Where did it come from? Where did it go? Why? How? Who? The branch and leaf children - the schooling - the furnaces - the glass- the animals - everything. It was left as a mystery, just niggling the back of my mind.
All the city parts were fine, as a contrast, but didn't hold my interest for very long. It was an obstacle to get past in order to get back to the Harutani parts. Is that what urban fantasy is, maybe?
Anyways, personally I don't understand Andy and Leo deciding to leave. I was upset about that for a while, it really stuck with me. There were just too many questions left hanging (and maybe that's because I don't have the emotional range of the author, and need closure to all situations), but if she's looking for critique I would read the HELL out of a story with far more weight placed on the Harutani valley and it's people.
As it is, its a thoughtful and graceful story. I enjoyed my time with it, and would look for more by this author. Thank you!