I'm not really sure what to say about this. It's perfectly fine.

There's some argument about if killing is okay, what responsibility is.

There's a fascist politician using typical right-wing campaign tactics, just with magic and magical creatures.

There are stakes, they are raised.

You get a taste of the world you're in. It's more that the protagonists (Emil and Brighton) have had more of a taste of the magical than say, Potter. A bit of magic with your iPhone if you will. Guns are replaced with Wands, and Wands hold charges much in a way a gun holds rounds.

It's worth saying, this book is an analogy for your identity being inherently political.

I will read the next one, probably this month, as there's no wait for this series, which troubles me.

It's not like I'd say it's literally the best fantasy I've ever read, but it's fine. It's a fine book. I don't know what the kids are reading instead.

Let's see if the middle book goes well.