Dead Man in a Ditch

The magic system and politics felt so layered, I kept wondering how much was planned versus evolving during writing. Did the author intend it to be this complex?

The character’s decisions often blurred the lines between right and wrong, which made me question what I’d do in their place. Did anyone else find themselves sympathizing with them despite their flaws?

The pacing kept me guessing, but I wonder if the mystery was intentionally intertwined with the world’s magic and lore from the start or if that developed later.