Overall, I enjoyed this novel. I liked the use of Muslim folklore/fantasy elements to tell a sweeping epic fantasy series.

The first of the series, in my opinion, should tell a complete story, leaving the reader wanting more. This one didn't feel as complete as I was expecting it too. I felt like I needed to read the second one right away to complete it. It's not a bad thing, but it's not what I wanted. I wanted the option to end and not see how the full story ends.

To Chakraborty's credit, she builds at the end that made it very difficult to put down. She also spent a lot of time world building and setting the stage. It felt almost more important than the story itself. She crafted a beautiful world with interesting people. I don't know if the world building complemented the plot or characters as much. There are moments where each main character is aggravating and exasperating. Toward the end, I had some problems with her treatment of Nahri and her agency of her choices. Overall though, a fun read and a great start to a series.