4.5 stars. 
 I really enjoyed this book! The start was pretty slow, not in actual pace because things happen relatively quickly. But I didn't feel connected to Cecile in the beginning, it sort of felt like I was just thrust into the story. It took a while to get into this story. 
 Luckily this didn't last too long! I was completely lost in this story, I am 5 weeks away from finals and yet I stayed up until 1am last night unable to put this book down! In the second half every chapter ends in some tension/suspense and I just had to read one more chapter.... which is of course never the case. 
 Trolls. Not at all what I was expecting! Their magic is interesting and I wish there had been a bit more magic in the book. The politics and power plays in the book is actually interesting though so I wasn't too bothered by it. The plot is captivating and there were many little threads laid out, I can't wait to see where they lead in the second book! 
 Cecile was an enjoyable main character, she is smart, brave and cheeky. Tristan... my, oh my. I really enjoyed his character! The snarkiness, the contempt, the disdain.. The way he carries himself I was very surprised to find out he was just seventeen. (view spoiler)[although closer to the end he does seem more seventeen but I am still a big fan! Especially because of the sweet gestures he makes. (hide spoiler)] 
 This was not insta-love. Yay! It was a sweet, palpable romance. And best of all, no love triangles! I loved the whole bonding aspect, it was very intriguing and although I think it was down played that is preferable to being overplayed, which some authors might have done! 
 There were also meaningful friendships and well-developed characters in the story. Although I admit I didn't find the king as intimidating as I probably should have. A well-written book, hopefully the next two books will do this one justice. 
 "They aren't ugly." I bit my lip, trying to find the right words. "more like beautiful things that have had the misfortune of being broken."