I read a lot of fantasy, so my expectations were pretty high, but I ended up really enjoying this book! It wasn't perfect, but it managed to be unique from anything I've read before.
Let me start by saying I was immediately drawn in by Teodora's powers, and I wanted to know more. As I kept reading, I found that I loved the Italian-inspired feel to this book. I also liked the introduction of shape shifters, Teodora's strong ties to her family, and her determination to accomplish her goals.
However, this book was not perfect for me. For example, even by the end of the book, I still don't feel like I really know the main characters, and the side characters are negligible. Although the plot kept this book moving, I think it would have had a lot more depth if I felt more for the characters.
I also had problems with the pacing at times. Even when extremely significant plot points happened, the book moved forward too fast for me (and Teodora) to really process events. Maybe that's just how she is, but some things felt extremely rushed and unrealistic.
Anyway, on to other things. Cielo is 100% my favorite character, and I want a spinoff with Cielo. The ending was satisfying, but it left things pretty open, so...
Let me start by saying I was immediately drawn in by Teodora's powers, and I wanted to know more. As I kept reading, I found that I loved the Italian-inspired feel to this book. I also liked the introduction of shape shifters, Teodora's strong ties to her family, and her determination to accomplish her goals.
However, this book was not perfect for me. For example, even by the end of the book, I still don't feel like I really know the main characters, and the side characters are negligible. Although the plot kept this book moving, I think it would have had a lot more depth if I felt more for the characters.
I also had problems with the pacing at times. Even when extremely significant plot points happened, the book moved forward too fast for me (and Teodora) to really process events. Maybe that's just how she is, but some things felt extremely rushed and unrealistic.
Anyway, on to other things. Cielo is 100% my favorite character, and I want a spinoff with Cielo. The ending was satisfying, but it left things pretty open, so...