Schwab's writing is so lyrical and lovely that I was mostly able to set aside my prejudices about present tense narratives and enjoy the book. It had some great moments ((view spoiler)[the first appearance of the Near Witch really wowed me (hide spoiler)]) and the pacing was good, but the story and some of the characters (even the love interest) left me wanting a bit. 
 Still, I'm a fan. I'm currently reading her second book (The Archived) and enjoying it even more.