This was such a good story, and it was quite engaging. The beginning took me a bit to really get into the story, but once I did-I wanted to know what was going to happen next. This book was not fast-paced, danger around every corner, biting my nails... it was calm while keeping you wondering and intrigued. There was so much that can be interpreted as allegory, and yet I took it as a fantastical adventure. I'm so glad I finally read this book.