I loved how the cover has a vividly eye-popping color which drew me in. I loved how the author added all these elements to move the story along. My favorite character is Ning who entered a competition to help save her sister from the same fate as her mother. She wants to prove that she will be the kingdom's greatest shennong-shi— masters of the ancient and magical art of tea-making—she travels all way to the imperial city to compete. She wants to be the winner to meet the princess and receive her favor to save her sister. If you enjoyed hunger games, then this book is for you. When I started reading the book I was hooked right from the start. The characters each had their own reasons to join the competition and I was rooting for Ning through the whole book. The story painted a vivid picture of what Ning is going through and feeling. I would highly recommend this book to others.