This book felt like a love letter to reading, especially to children's books as one of the characters is a famous children's author. Part of the book also takes place on Clock island which was such a magical setting. If you're a fan of Willy Wonka & the Chocolate factory, this is a must read.

At its core, the novel is a simple, heartwarming story, one filled with lovable characters and fun riddles and games. There's some light romance to it, too, and it has loads of feel-good moments involving friendship and found family. But I wanted a touch more from it.

And finally, Richard's mysterious death links to the evil inside of him becoming so overpowering it kills him.

Trigger & Content Warnings *Context : The protagonist learns her sister's childhood chronic illness was the result of her parents' attempts to keep her sick. Discussions of children in foster care due to abusive alcoholic parents and parents' deaths from overdoses.