This was a story about cruelty found in people by way of taunts, wickedness and violence. But also the cruelty of nature, and the sacrifices one must make to fight for a better world. Everything has a price, and the religious aspects of gods that are viewed differently by different peoples shows that. Magic exists, weather by faith or by legends, and is told through stories and prayers. When one forges a blade, heals or makes a flame, the gods take from you. Small things like sleep or age, vitality and strength. But when one asks for strength, a part of the body must be sacrificed. There seems to be less difference between the pagans and the common folk then they think.

I really enjoyed this book. The Hungarian setting was new to me and while I’m usually not a fan of religious viewpoints, the way the various religions, gods and worshipping methods were presented was quite the intriguing. Throw in a magic system which works through nature, prayers and sacrifice and a fleeting but real enemies to lovers and you’ve got me. The political and fighting scenes was great pacing, and the ending was very different from what I imagined, but left me quite satisfied.