I adored this book like you have no idea! Though it's got a slow start and it's a little hard to get into once it goes off, IT GOES OFF. The story is so rich and fantastical, with alluring world building. I have to disclose I really don't know much anything about Japanese mythology so I don't know how innacurate or not the inspiration is here, but I felt the story was written with utmost respect and care. Independent of that, the characters are so cute and I love them so much. Like I LOVE Emi! I found her so endearing and sweet and kick ass and strong and know what she wants and she's just great all around. Shiro is the sexy, ancient bad boy but Yumei is the SUPER SEXY RAVEN MAN that I go heart eyes for omg. Basically, he's my hubby. Raven guys just do something to me. Again, I really loved this book. I had so much fun reading it. It had its action and adventure, its conflict was nicely done, the plot was really engaging once it got going, and the narrative was incredible. Annette Marie is an amazing writer, for real. I also have to say, I'm very romance repulsed at points, and either don't care for it in books and wish it didn't exist, or I accept the love story presented bc there's nothing to do otherwise and just focus on the other elements in the plot. That didn't happen here! I was/am invested in Shiro and Emi and even Emi and Katsuo! Though I am kinda partial to Shiro, the way the romance was done here didn't annoy me at all. Though I did question the way Katsuo's kiss was juxtaposed with Shiro's it didn't take away my enjoyment, I'm glad to say. And what can I say about Brittany Jackson's illustrations! They are to die for! Honestly, this is one of the best books I've read in a long time. Really hit off my escapist needs.