This rating is not at the fault of the book at all. This was my first time reading high fantasy so I didn't really know what to expect and I think some of the elements were a little confusing.

The beginning was slow for me but of course, we needed world building. The 2nd person narration for Essun's POV didn't deter me at all, but that could just be because I knew it was coming.

I didn't always feel connected to the characters but I adored Damaya and especially felt for her when 

Schaffa broke her hand but was like "I did it because I love you" UGH

And for some reason I just really love Hoa...idk

So the POVs. 

I figured that they would all converge at some point. I picked up on the time jumps but didn't realize that it was all the same person at different parts of her life until Damaya chose the name Syenite..

One thing that I really hate - and yes I know why it's needed - was the forced motherhood aspect and the way they go about it

Loved that this included trans rep, polyamory, and a discussion of systematic oppression and manipulation

Some of my unanswered questions are - 

why did Alabaster start the season? ( I mean I have an idea but still) - where the heck are Jija and Nassun? - and why has Hoa been following her for 10 years?