The themes of classism, racism, sexism, corruption, and the weaponization of religion throughout this novel grew quickly tiresome. I felt that instead of acting as interwoven motifs that complimented the storyline, they were instead forced upon the reader as though the author was trying to convince the reader in a very YA fashion their harmful nature. I additionally guessed the first major plot twist within the second chapter which very nearly made this novel a DNF. I however did find the introspection of Sciona, the character development, magic system, and overall world building to be very unique and interesting. This novel would have gotten a 3.5 if it weren't for the ending which was compelling and finally got my pulse racing. Overall I was slightly disappointed with this novel considering I’ve previously read The Sword of Kaigen which was a work of art.

There are not enough words to describe how much I enjoyed this book. I want more of it, even though it ended perfectly. It's an incrediblely complex story that just got better and better as I read it.