Clark is a fantastic writer. Somehow he manages to make this story feel all over the place, but completely grounded at the same time. I loved the world building of this alternate Cairo, and I loved Fatma as a character.

It says a great deal about Clark that he knows that any piece not set in America or Western Europe is immediately put into a political space, and must be handled with care. He did just that and really excelled in the narrative. It was handled very responsibly, amidst a wonderful enchanting story.

PS - I'm absolutely in love with the mechanical angels. Ugh what a cool characterization!!