The Rapunzel references felt very forced and I don't really understand what part of this was meant to be Rapunzel-inspired. Just the fact she had long hair and wasn't free to go where she pleased? That part did not hit home with me. Ignoring that expectation, I think the book is quite good on its own without trying to force it into the box of a fairy tale retelling/inspired by something else. The plot was interesting. I liked how the dual narrative was handled, I thought the author did a great job balancing the viewpoints of Selestra and Nox. I liked Seletra and Nox's motivation throughout the story as well, though there is a romantic element they were working together for more than that and I found that quite enjoyable.
The magic system was fun and I loved the map at the beginning. I thought the world building was well done and interesting to read.
The magic system was fun and I loved the map at the beginning. I thought the world building was well done and interesting to read.