This was super interesting and a really rich world! It felt kind of slow at the beginning, and the ending felt kind of rushed, but I was definitely deeply invested in the story by then and given that this is the first in a duology it can maybe be forgiven for the rushed sense (though it is LONG), as it makes sense to end where it did and leaving you wanting more. I felt a little tossed into the deep end at the beginning, but things gradually started to make more and more sense. If you're interested in fantasy that has a rich and original feel to it, definitely check this out!