It would have been five stars, but I was so stressed for about 200-300 pages that I just couldn't. I'll know on a reread if it was my own senses triggered or unnecessary meandering.

Either way, 90% of this book takes place on the palace grounds and that never stops the steam of the train. It's so much fun. I love the characters, good and bad, and am completely invested. I'll likely start the third book tonight.