3.5 stars.

This was a solid book. I liked the premise and I really liked how the story developed. Maram was a surprise to me, but a good one. Idris was a nice counterpoint as was Tala.
One thing that did bug me was the use of technology in this world. You assume it is a Morocco-esque book but then there's all this technology that pulls you out of the world. I don't think it fits and needs to decide if it is sci-fi or fantasy. I do t think the two quite mix.
But the story is solid and I will probably continue with this series.