This is very slow-moving, so it’s definitely for patient readers who prefer a relaxed pace. I couldn’t place Dima and Azad at an age at first. Azad’s pranks seemed so childish for him to be around 19, and, although I don’t mind mischievous characters, with the way he was introduced it felt like Azad took advantage of Dima’s affection for him. For that reason, I was never rooting for him. 

But I liked the attention to detail with the history, the way people dress, the role of scholars, and different cultures and names. The brunt of the story takes place when Dima lives with the Viking-type/Norse people. There’s less or a subtle fantasy element (though there is a magic crystal) and more “found family” vibes. The minor romance that is present here is rather wholesome and in the background. Overall, I wanted more adventure, but I didn’t think this was bad at all.