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katiemack 's review for:

Where Dreams Descend by Janella Angeles
4.0

I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

3.5, rounded up. This is a gorgeous book with lush descriptions and gothic themes and sensibilities, filled with magic and nefarious schemes. I adored Kallia, the showgirl-turned-magician, and the way she constantly surprises the dubious men in the town with her power. I also think Angeles does an excellent job fleshing out (some of) her side characters; I especially loved the mischievous Aaros and his friendship with Kallia--in fact, I could have used more of him and the cantankerous seamstress (whose name escapes me...).

Conversely, the love interests (Jack and Daron) had confusing motives, and their personality traits seemed a bit inconsistent. The pacing was also somewhat inconsistent, moving along slowly and then releasing several important plot points at once in such a way that I had to go back and reread parts.

Nonetheless, I am excited to read the sequel (or, at least, I hope there's a sequel; that was one heck of a cliffhanger...)