This book did many of the things I like least in fiction, but oddly enough I enjoyed this book. Couldn't put it down and finished it within the day with time to spare. Although it began somewhat awkwardly, I really like the premise and settings of the book. The characters seemed of the cookie cutter (dare I say Mary Sue/Gary Stu-ish, which may be the fatal blow for most of you) variety at first, and most of them remained that way, but there was real emotional depth to Percy and Alexi's characters that didn't feel difficult to believe.