Everless

The book is widely praised for its unique and imaginative world-building, centered around a compelling concept where time serves as currency, extracted from blood and bound into coins. Reviewers found this premise highly original and captivating, creating a distinct and memorable setting. Many also lauded the story for its intricate web of intrigue, deception, and secrets, with a narrative that steadily expands and deepens. A significant highlight for many readers was the abundance of unexpected plot twists, particularly towards the latter half of the book, which kept them engaged and surprised. The author is also commended for subverting common fantasy tropes, especially concerning romantic expectations and character roles, making the story less predictable. Despite some criticisms, many found the overall narrative compelling and the protagonist, Jules, to be a determined and strong character who develops mental fortitude as the story progresses. Some also particularly enjoyed the intriguing nature of certain secondary characters.

Conversely, many reviewers expressed frustration with several aspects of the book. A common point of contention was the pacing, with some finding the initial chapters slow due to extensive world-building explanations, while others felt the ending was rushed. Character development, especially for the main character Jules, was frequently criticized as inconsistent, bland, or lacking depth, leading to a sense of detachment. Her decisions were often described as irrational or illogical, particularly her disregard for warnings and her reliance on miscommunication as a plot device, which many found maddening. The romantic elements also garnered mixed reactions, with some finding the protagonist's long-standing childhood crush unrealistic and unconvincing. While the core concept was praised, a minority of readers felt it echoed themes from other media. Additionally, some found the world-building and mythology to be occasionally confusing or not fully fleshed out, and the writing style was at times described as overly descriptive or "telling" rather than "showing." One review also noted a perceived issue with tokenism in the representation of a character of color.

Overall, this book elicits a divided response, showcasing both significant strengths and notable weaknesses often attributed to a debut novel. Despite its flaws, many readers who expressed criticisms still acknowledged the author's talent and the book's potential, often expressing eagerness to read the sequel due to the intriguing cliffhanger ending. This book would likely appeal to readers who enjoy unique and imaginative fantasy concepts, appreciate a story rich with secrets and unexpected plot twists, and are open to narratives that subvert common genre tropes. It may also suit those who prefer a more mature Young Adult fantasy experience and can overlook initial pacing issues or character inconsistencies. However, those who prioritize strong, logical character decisions, a well-developed and satisfying romance, or a consistently fast-paced plot from the outset might find it less engaging.