I really enjoyed this novel. I am definitely looking forward to the next installment. 
 This novel is told from alternating view points. Laia, a scholar born, represents the lowest level of society. Although, the scholars were once the upper tier, the martials eventually defeated them and enslaved their society. Laia, in hopes of saving her brother, reluctantly joins the rebels to become a spy where the deadliest martials are trained. 
 Elias, a martial, is days a way from graduating and becoming a brutal mask; although, Elias is not ready to embrace that side of himself. He wants to run away and just be free from killing people. 
 Both characters are strong and very compelling. The world building is fantastic. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys YA fantasy.