I haven't read anything else by Clare, so had no preconceptions about the world she had already created. What I like most about this book was how real Tessa was, especially that she reacted to crazy unfamiliar situations in a realistic but not repetitive way. It always bothers me how many book characters are thrust into unimaginable circumstances and don't seem at all emotional about it. 
 The plot was good, it had some interesting twists and worthwhile messages about family, and I enjoyed the world Clare has created. I didn't love the epilogue though - too much left hanging for me.