3.5 stars 
 I haven't read the Grisha trilogy prior to reading this because, well, I didn't know it was in any way related to that but I'm glad that even though I wasn't that familiar of the existing world, I have acclimated well with the confines of this book. 
 Frankly, I had stellar expectations (think sky-high) since almost all the people I know loved it. I was ready to give this a solid four-star rating but the slow progress threw me off a little but then again I also appreciate it since I had enough time to familiarize myself with the characters and the terms floating around. But, I wasn't that wowed with it, as well. I did love the pairings--they're like a sweet cherry on top of the story and I'm loving it. I'm just a little frustrated with this (view spoiler)[Kaz and Inej thing. How hard is it to tell Inej you like her, huh Kaz? But then again, he is a very complex character, one I would want to know more of. He has went through a lot (omg that bit where he used his brother to get to land my heart is just it hurts ouch). (hide spoiler)] 
 I loved all the characters except perhaps Wylan because he was just a glorified extra? IDK. I loved Nina and Matthias and the very witty Jesper. And of course Kaz and Inej. They all have a certain quality that they put in to the crew. 
 Honestly, I would go ahead and say that I'll be reading the next book of this series (will this be a series? or just a duology?) and also the Grisha trilogy in the future. 
 P.S. I sooooo have a crush on Jesper. Dear me. 
 My other thoughts can be found here.