When I started this book, I absolutely loved it. Maybe that’s why I was so disappointed when by the midway point it lost a lot of its charm and suspense for me. 

I love how the beginning section is narrated and that we learn more about the world, lore, and its history through the eyes and experience of young Tarisai. I also enjoyed how culture is depicted. In many ways it’s a story of culture and difference, of harmony and disharmony, and how culture intersects with politics and ideology. I think this was beautifully woven throughout the story. 

The second half, for me, felt too fast. The suspense diminished and passages felt like they were missing. The worldbuilding slowed down in this section, but there was little time for characters to experience and think through what they’re encountering. The magic system revolves around intimacy… beautiful. LOVE. But I don’t think enough time was devoted to exploring their intimate relationships, which really lets this down. 

Pros: culture, worldbuilding, young narrator, well-researched