An Ember in the Ashes

3 1/2 stars really.
Pros
Great premise. The world was really interesting (not at all reminiscing of rome btw). The masks were the highlight, very intriguing. Additionally, there are hints of other magical aspects that can be expanded on in the future. The augurs were also really interesting and i hope we get to learn more of their motivations.

Some of the characters. Helene and her struggles, the commandant too, and although a little whiny, elias was interesring.

Ending. Although not groundbreaking, the ending fixed some of the character of laia.

Cons

The resistance. Just all of it.

Laia. Super gullibe, super predictable, very annoying and whiny and save me save me type. She got slightly better by the end, so i guess she had some growth throughout.

Other people's relationship with laia. We have to protect her instantly even though she things of no one but her brother and believes everything thrown at her, complains a lot about being weak while having everyone come in and save her (in the end gets a little better)

Love stories. I usually need them in my fantasies and although some in here are realistic, there's a good dose of instalove or this is a woman and so i must sort of guys. I mean these guys... (also laia)

Anyway, I'll continue with the series, as I said the world is very interesting and can be expanded upon, the characters can get better and I want to know more about some of them. If you don't mind some inner whinning from the MC, you could kind of get lost in this story.