I have read some of Stella Rainbow's other works and enjoyed them as 'different' and outside the norms of m/m romances. I found this one similar in that Stella does not use stereotypes to 'flesh' out her stories.
The world-building is excellent and an interesting take on after-death experiences. While some elements will seem familiar, each has its own twist.
The character building? Well, it seems to be a step-by-step exploration of each character which can be frustrating if you like connecting with the characters quickly. By the end, I felt like I was just starting to get past the surface of each character so they feel incomplete.
The plot is still being revealed. I get the overarching premises, but I find that I am not able to see how the twists and turns will go. Stella is definitely not taking the straight route or even an expected path. Should be an interesting journey.
I will add that this book did not have the same flow that I remember from the others - if felt more -- rough? Like the editing missed a step. ( )