Really good novel. Magic system is so-so, but the worldbuilding is solid. There is a good story within a story too, and the characters are challenged and changed.

Some great dialogue too:

“I will stop being a mouse, Quentin. I will take some chances. If you will, for just one second, look at your life and see how perfect it is. Stop looking for the next secret door that is going to lead you to your real life. Stop waiting. This is it: there’s nothing else. It’s here, and you’d better decide to enjoy it or you’re going to be miserable wherever you go, for the rest of your life, forever.” - Alice
“You can’t just decide to be happy.” - Quentin
“No, you can’t. But you can sure as hell decide to be miserable...” - Alice