Saira

Tone and writing really reminded me of the 39 Clues (one of my favorite series) but a little older! It did still read a little young for college aged and is not that academically/nerdy as some other books– so definitely read more like upper MG/lower YA. I loved Sam & Bennett's relationship and Jo was a fun character too. It was nice how it was set in the 1920s, though I wish we got more of that vibe and more setting/world building on the train and steamer. I think the general premise/name of this “Specter Queen” and Ireland is a bit less appealing for an archaeology book (especially a first one) but it could've been aided by stronger world building and description. Despite this, still a fun time, well paced and looking forward to reading more in the series!

*SPOILER
Also, still SHOCKED by what happened to Alistair, and don't like that... it seemed too dark to fit in with the rest of the story -- the other fates seemed more justified, but not him... seemed like a bit of just a shock factor.

Started out just okay, then got good once the trials started and Drake and Cass teamed up. The ending was very rushed and bonkers and ended on the worst cliffhanger ever, which kind of cancelled out the rest of the book with making it just feel rushed or half-finished, especially since there's no news of a following book. Similar to “Realm of Wonders'” but that was better.

The most well written book? No, but the setting was immersive and who doesn't love fantasy academia vibes. The pacing and story were interesting and I raced through the book easily after a bit of a slow time getting in. I'm a bit indifferent to the dragon aspect personally, but I guess it's better than fae?

The book was really well written. You followed along with both Sutton and Emma's thought processes and could see exactly why they thought a certain person was the killer and their reasoning and deduction. The only minor thing that could have been better for me is if the author made it a little clearer when which twin was speaking (using italics or something) as at times I would forget the story was in Sutton's viewpoint and she would say “I” and I would get confused thinking it was Emma talking. Other than that, good writing and plot line that kept me on my toes and I was really convinced it was the SPOILER Twitter Twins.