Update: Re-read this in conjunction with the notes I'm taking from Structuring Your Novel by KM Weildand and this book is actually perfect in terms of the plot structure and pacing. Reading it as a writer rather than a reader has given me a greater appreciation of how Novik is able to keep cranking up the conflict. This book kept me on the edge of my seat, even as a re-read! I purchased the audiobook for this exercise...these factors have led me to change my rating from 4 to 5 stars. 
 What a perfect book, and I cannot say THANK YOU enough to Naomi Novik for writing a standalone fantasy in the era of series that authors do not finish in a timely manner! There's so much to love here. The magic system/spells were reminiscent of those found in Harry Potter, Agnieszka was a plucky heroine, the Dragon was a curmudgeon that you couldn't help but admire, the evil Wood was scary as hell. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is that I wish it had a little more in the way of romance. Nonetheless I really enjoyed this book and the patrons of my library are about to be bombarded with recommendations to read this if they haven't already.