Wow. This book was amazing! Why doesn't it have better reviews? I've become pretty critical of the books I read lately, but I honestly just adored this book! 
 The thing that really made this book was the characters. Jessamin, our heroine, is strong, independent, clever, and witty, while still being realistic. She's not an untouchably, unrealistic strong character like, say, Katniss Everdeen. Jessamine is really well-written, without seeming annoying. 
 Finn, our hero, is another great character. First off, he's a wizard. Score. With a tragic past. Double score. And he's handsome and charming and a noble. *Swoons* His interactions with Jessamine are charming and funny and Finn and Jessamine have what I loved so much about Penryn and Raffe in Angelfall. Their dialogue and interactions are as enjoyable as the storyline itself. 
 Speaking of the storyline, that is probably the book's weak point. While it is completely interesting and there are a few big twists you don't expect, people's motives (the villain, in particular) seem a little weak and not too well-founded. But it doesn't even matter because you're too busy enjoying the story. This book had a very Howl's Moving Castle vibe, which isn't surprising since the author lists both Diana Wynne Jones and Hayao Miyazaki in her acknowledgements note at the end of the book. 
 The ending seemed a little rushed. There were some issues that I wished went into more detail. But the book did contain itself well, although the end had me worried, and it stands solidly as a stand alone novel. I would love love love a sequel and I'd be the first to rush out and buy it, but I think this single book is the end of Finn's and Jessamine's journey, and it works. 
 Ugh I definitley feel a book hangover coming on!