In the kingdom of Sempera, time is currency—extracted from blood, bound to iron, and consumed to add time to one’s own lifespan. The rich aristocracy, like the Gerlings, tax the poor to the hilt, extending their own lives by centuries.
No one resents the Gerlings more than Jules Ember. A decade ago, she and her father were servants at Everless, the Gerlings’ palatial estate, until a fateful accident forced them to flee in the dead of night. When Jules discovers that her father is dying, she knows that she must return to Everless to earn more time for him before she loses him forever.
But going back to Everless brings more danger—and temptation—than Jules could have ever imagined. Soon she’s caught in a tangle of violent secrets and finds her heart torn between two people she thought she’d never see again. Her decisions have the power to change her fate—and the fate of time itself.
No one resents the Gerlings more than Jules Ember. A decade ago, she and her father were servants at Everless, the Gerlings’ palatial estate, until a fateful accident forced them to flee in the dead of night. When Jules discovers that her father is dying, she knows that she must return to Everless to earn more time for him before she loses him forever.
But going back to Everless brings more danger—and temptation—than Jules could have ever imagined. Soon she’s caught in a tangle of violent secrets and finds her heart torn between two people she thought she’d never see again. Her decisions have the power to change her fate—and the fate of time itself.
Source: e-arc from publisher via netgalley
4.5 Stars
I was drawn to this book because of the beautiful book cover (especially the hardback cover edition).With all the hype around it, I have to admit I was a bit hesitant as I hadn't read any reviews when I started it. But this was a great YA fantasy to start my 2018 reading. Everless has great world building and some unexpected plot twists.
I knew by the end of the first chapter I knew I had made the right choice in picking up this book. The first chapter opens with a hunting scene which reminded me of The Hunger Games and ACOTAR. I loved the way that the time is money sorcery is translated in this book, I loved this idea when I read the synopsis and was impressed the way it played out. It is a thought provoking idea! We also get to know a lot about our main character in this first chapter. We can see her love for her farther and her frustration at the differing social classes. As well as a hint at a luxury/easier childhood.
I loved the interactions between Jules and the various characters in Everless. Her interactions with the Gerling brothers, visiting royalty and her fellow servants. I wasn't expecting her to get along with Lady Gold but it was fun to watch friendships grow between the classes and the different groups of servants. This genre us often tropey but the author almost plays with these tropes, hinting at them and then directing the story a slightly different way. This book is a great example of how much my opinion of characters changes through out a book.
Everless was beautifully written with great world building. This book is unique and has some unexpected plot twists - trust no one and look for help in the most unlikely places!
