I really enjoyed this series opener. The magic/political/social system is fully realised and, as far as I know, unique. The world building happens naturally and gradually. The characters are mainly women, all complex, with distinct personalities and flaws while being ultimately loveable. The book is full of small surprises that still follow logically from the characters and world it has set up. I am invested in the series and excited to read more soon. My biggest complaint is that it's not queer enough for me but I hope that will change in later books. :)