I enjoyed the world building. It was thorough enough to feel real without being bogged down. I enjoyed the Persian rather than European foundation. I think we weren’t given enough time with Soraya before the action to understand what her life was really like and to be able to notice how much she changes. I wish the context of Soraya’s bisexuality had been better placed in her world (is it acceptable or subversive?). I also think the two relationships Soraya had were unevenly developed and explored, which was a shame. Overall though, I enjoyed this fresh, dark take on fantasy.