5/5 Stars 
 This book had everything I wanted and a ton more. I was worried about two things happening while I was reading this novel. I was worried about not being able to fully understand the magic system or being able to differentiate between all the different variations of London. I was also worried that the overarching plot of this book would fizzle into the abyss while a love story took place. I was shocked and expressed to find out that none of those worries came to fruition. 
 Any small problems I saw with the novel were so trivial that when looking at what rating to give this book, there truly was no other option than for me to give it a 5 star. It had everything I crave out of a good fantasy novel. An understandable not overly simplified magic system, badass characters, a badass 
 FEMALE 
 character, high-paced action and plot development at every turn. High amounts of wonderful banter. To top it off: extremely beautful, atmospheric and almost lyrical at times, writing. The writing in this book was extraordinary. This being my first Schwab book I didn't really know what to expect going into it as far as the writing goes, but I couldn't help but to love every line of dialogue as well as every line of narration. 
 I definitely plan on picking up the rest of the books in this trilogy as well as the rest of V.E. Schwab's other works. I would highly recommend this to anyone considering this series that have been skeptical of the hype, much like I was. I can assure you that you will NOT regret picking this one up.