Smooth and well performed narration, interesting and engaging characters

The story was warm and interesting; the system and society of magic set in late 1900s gaslamp didn't feel awkward, though I itched for more details in many places. Magic was the moral exploration of good vs evil design where tools are neutral.
The narration was a warm-fuzzy pleasure to listen to - great pacing, emphasis, and diction made for a good dramatic listen (although it was difficult to differentiate characters sometimes).
The mystery and thrill were engaging, though not labyrinthian, and despite a few predictable nefarious/obnoxious characters, they nevertheless kept my interest the whole time, and leaving room for the audience to ponder.
The romance was sweet and heartwarming, with thankfully far less of the usual romcom stereotyped drama of misunderstandings and expected mind-reading of lovers; mature and world-wise talents of listening and seeking understanding were employed, and appreciated. I felt envious in a good way!
The most attractive points, though, started with the dedication and honest exploration of neurodivergent people; the main character was believable, relatable, and organic. If nothing else, it de-villified and re-humanised neurodivergent people (whilst highlighting the trials beset by such people in our society).
The second point, the wonderful rainbow icing on this "kuchen" of a story, was the wonderful dramatis personae of rainbow and queer people. There was a diversity of genders, sexual identities, colours, and even a warm and enviable example of a non-traditional family unit. There was no queer-baiting, nor uncomfortable emphasis; most everything felt organic and natural and as messy as it should be in real life.
All in all, I very much enjoyed this audiobook, and will be seeking out the rest of the series, as well as other works performed by the narrator.

P.S.: I also appreciated the accurate medical/forensic pathology references (the main character being a medical examiner). Especially: *don't remove foreign objects stuck in a person*!

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