This book is the start of a great new series that easily surpasses the “Maker’s Song Series”. Ms. Phoenix, while she continues to write from multiple perspectives in this book, has 1) decreased those perspectives down to a manageable level and 2) brought those perspectives quickly together so that the reader is not left hanging, wondering why the heck you are reading about some minor character who happens to be the maid. The story is dark, and fascinating. Ms. Phoenix has created a world, a language, and a unique way of being in this book. Magic is a way of life, not needing explanation, it just is. It is hard to explain what is going on in the book because I find myself writing spoilers every time I try. To avoid spoiling the book, I will just tell you the mystery is good and I did not predict the ending, it was quite the twist. In addition, for those who read the Maker’s Song Series, there is no glossary in the back.
