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Chapter 27

“In my story, they get eaten because they followed the rules.”
“That’s a twist,” Milla said.
“All those stories about doing what witches tell you are silly. Why would you do what a witch tells you?”

Chapter 23
I am devouring this book. I can’t predict what will happen moment to moment. I can’t put it down!

Chapter 9
As a YA novel told from isolated Milla's perspective, the writing is simple and direct. Flowery metaphors would feel unnatural. The author uses grounded similes like eyes "bright and dark like syrup" which embrace a fairytale simplicity, using high-contrast sensory details rather than more academic prose. The writing style is effective for this kind of story. It evokes classic fairytale to me.

Chapter 7 typo
“ Trude…. Pulled Iris inside.” Nope. She pulled Milla inside.

“Iris went blank. So blank. So blank it was as if Iris weren’t there anymore…”
Some have left bad reviews of this book because of this repetitive prose, but it's perfect psychological realism for a sheltered teen. When overwhelmed by shock, the human brain doesn't think logically—it loops and stutters. The author deliberately uses this rhythm to pull the reader right into her cognitive freeze.

Chapter 4

Chapter 3. So far dark, creepy and well written.

“You small mortals don’t realize the power of your stories.”

A lot of messages about when it’s ok to break the rules.
“I did what I believed was right…. It’s my duty— in fact, I believe every person’s duty, especially those in power— to reject unjust laws. To choose kindness and empathy, whenever we can.”

“I found a place I want to be and a future I want to have. I’m happy and I hope you are too.”

These last few pages got me teary eyed. I appreciate that Terlu was so excited for her library job and it turned out to be not at all what she wanted. It was lonely and disappointing and then a nightmare. A lot of us find ourselves in situations which we picked and were excited about but the reality is different than the dream. I like that eventually she finds her place and is happy and fulfilled. It’s hopeful.

Chapter 30

“Fear consumed reason.” Accurate!!
The story is really good now. Can’t put it down!

Great action and mystery packed chapter!
Why has it taken them so long to talk to the ghost?!?

At times the romance is way too over the top cliche between Yarrow and Terlu and even Rowan and Ambrel. It’s all a bit too starry eyed for me. Also I am getting tired of Terlu’s pathetic “no one ever loved me, I’m a screw up” kind of script. She’s going on about how Yarrow accepts her unconditionally even when she makes mistakes. It’s a bit too “poor me”main character attitude repeatedly.

Chapter 27

Chapter 25

Chapter 21

I’ve been enjoying the descriptions of foods in the novel so far. Especially Yarrow’s carrot and zucchini bread which smells like “a fall harvest or like a farmers market…” it is described as “as moist as cake and smelled of cinnamon, nutmeg and hints of sweet spiciness.” And he served it with honey butter!

Chapter 16

The flowers remind me a little of Alice in wonderland. I like the distinct traits they are given like how the Ivy hisses.

Overall I think this story is well written and cozy and charming. However there are a few phrases that are overused or strange like describing hot chocolate like a melting sunset at the beginning of chapter 13 and Yarrow’s “deep-as-the-sea eyes.” It’s cringy.

Chapters 12-13

I am really loving the descriptions of different green houses and the creatures including tiny dragon pollinators and leaf mice.

Chapter 9

Chapter 6
Really enjoying the plot and writing style so far! Lots of great descriptions of flowers and unique fantasy greenhouses.

Just four chapters take place in faerie. What a disappointment! I thought the book would have so much more.

Plot is finally picking up!!

So slow