Well-written, but I found it hard to root for any of the vast ensemble cast. Everyone was presented fairly quickly, and then it felt like I was expected to care about them all, while still grappling with the worldbuilding and overarching plot (which, while intricate and exceptionally crafted, really confused me). 

Because of how quickly they were introduced, and how many of them there were, the characters felt one-dimensional to me. Except for their relative positions in society and in their story, little differentiated them from one another. It didn't help that the main ensemble cast seemed to be the only "middle of the road" characters - the supporting cast was universally extremist in their opinions/actions, whether that be racial/religious prejudice, constant behind-the-scenes plotting, or something else. I kept asking, "are these four really the only rational people in the whole realm?" and that really took me out of it. 

I also found the pacing dissatisfying - the whole climax felt way too rushed, especially.

I wish I got to know the characters better before the final act kicked off. I just couldn't bring myself to care.