I was so excited to receive an Advance Review Copy of this book. There were many things to love about this book, but in my opinion the best thing is its characters. I really connected with all of them, even the side characters (although MJ's development as she evolves into the princess role was the coolest). The fantasy elements are also really good--witches and magic and amazing world building. The writing is really descriptive, which makes a huge difference when you're trying to envision what's going on in the plot. I enjoyed the romance and mystery as well, as well as the influence of political events. It was very interesting to see how this book tied together so many different ideas into one good plot. I'm so excited to read the sequel, and more of Melissa de la Cruz's books! And by the way, this book would make a great movie--just saying.