I really enjoyed this book and didn't want to put it down. It had pretty much everything I wanted from the book: sci-fi, action, battles, politics, intrigue, power dynamics, family relationships, a mix of cultures and a strong focus on female characters. The author also took some inspiration from ancient Greek history, which is always nice to see. 

Its flaws aren't too many but they do exist. The changes from past to present tense and from third to first person are annoying and frankly unnecessary. The character relationships need a bit more focus (though this is only book 1). The protagonist's same-sex romance with another character is sweet but similarly underdeveloped. I also think that the book starts off feeling a little like a YA novel but actually isn't one. 

On the whole though I liked it a lot and am looking forward to book 2.