Overall I thought this was a very interesting story. I appreciated the world building and the character portrayals. The relationships between characters were intense, and overall this was a dark and interesting book. Unfortunately for me, the pacing was too slow and I had trouble getting into the flow of the story. I think people who like more slow-burn fantasy will greatly enjoy this book.

There are times when we must step into our own skin. There are times when our lives are planned for us. This tale is of two young women, both fighting to live. Both working towards a destiny that can free them or their people. The book is magical, both light and dark. There is patois or patwah speech, twists and unexpected turns. It is the first in a remarkable series. I expect great things from this author.

A fantastic and thrilling book with a stunning setting and unforgettable characters. I truly look forward to what Ciannon Smart writes next.

If HBO wants to do another Game of Thrones style TV show, this would be the perfect one to pick up! Filled with rich world building and complicated characters, this book will satisfy any lover of high fantasy; do not let the YA rating scare you! I am not quiet about the fact that I quit high fantasy years ago, because I was bored of reading books written by white men and basing their worlds off of Western Europe/England. It was the same thing over and over again. I am so happy that more diverse fantasy is being published and people are excited about it! This book is one that people will love and want more from this world, especially after that last line!

Jazmyn and Iraya have known nothing but hate for each other because of where they both come from. Jazmyn’s mother is responsible for the death of Iraya’s parents and the imprisonment of her people and the subjugation of so many people across their land. However, change is coming and if they can work together then their island may have a chance for change and magic can be restored to its rightful owners. I liked this book but it is very confusing for at least the first half. There are a lot of characters and places and history and I had a challenging time keeping it all straight!

I wasn't sure I would like this book but I decided to give it a chance. I am so happy I did because it was so good!! I read it in a day it was so good. The plotline was so exciting and I could not wait to find out what happens next. I will be purchasing this book for my library's YA collection because I know the teens will love this book.