Set in an alternative Gilded Age Paris where there are four houses in power, this book brings together five uniquely talented young people who need to work with each other to save civilization from collapse. At first, these unlikely allies are only looking for ancient artifacts to benefit their own agendas, but when they find out that the Fallen House is trying to find and awaken the Babel Fragments in order to destroy and remake civilization, they must decide to put their lives on the line to stop these evil people from committing unspeakable horrors. This first book in a new series will follow Severin, Laila, Zofia, Tristan, and Hypnos as they hunt for important artifacts and end up in danger along the way.
I enjoyed this book overall, with some reservations. The writing was exquisitely descriptive, making me want to experience this alternative Paris myself. The cover is so beautiful as well and helped me envision parts of this world. The characters were well drawn and easy to sympathize with. I found myself laughing and crying several times as they went through difficult and dangerous circumstances together. The heist that occurred was so interesting that I couldn't stop reading. I didn't care for the profanity, didn't agree with some of the views presented, and at times the violence was a little too descriptive for me. Other than that, I will be looking forward to reading the next book, and I recommend this book to older teens and anyone who enjoys a good adventure story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through the Bookish First program. A positive review was not required, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.
I enjoyed this book overall, with some reservations. The writing was exquisitely descriptive, making me want to experience this alternative Paris myself. The cover is so beautiful as well and helped me envision parts of this world. The characters were well drawn and easy to sympathize with. I found myself laughing and crying several times as they went through difficult and dangerous circumstances together. The heist that occurred was so interesting that I couldn't stop reading. I didn't care for the profanity, didn't agree with some of the views presented, and at times the violence was a little too descriptive for me. Other than that, I will be looking forward to reading the next book, and I recommend this book to older teens and anyone who enjoys a good adventure story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through the Bookish First program. A positive review was not required, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.