I feel kind of cheated because of the skipped year but in the same time I'm grateful I was spared from the trainwreck in  slo-mo it apparently was. Still, it annoyed me and this is the reason I'm reducing half a star. Pffft, whatever.

It was a rich book, showing the cultural and religious clash between three countries and faiths marvellously. Not sure why it's being marketed as sci-fi in my country since it's obviously high-fantasy but hey, at least it's translated and more people have the opportunity to get to it (and feel my pain). i'll recommend it endlessly, I'm generous like that (especially with pain).

I really liked the characters.

Strong, self-assured women.

Clever, proficient men.

I'm especially fond of Ammar and Miranda. ^^

I don't feel coherent enough to review this book, and I'm not sure I ever will. What I can say is that it is painful and it is beautiful and I will read it again.

 I've got a playlist of sappy songs with the only purpose to comfort myself.

Also I've got the perfect Lymond in my mind:

And some of my favourite quotes:

She stood now in another country, whose sun burned and whose air was too rare for her breathing. And she stood there alone, with the words of a warning for company:

Tant que je vive …

Long as I live, my heart will never vary
For no one else, however fair or good
Brave, resolute or rich, of gentle blood.
My choice is made, and I will have no other

("Tant que je vive, mon cueur ne changera
Pour nulle vivante, tant soit elle bonne ou saige
Forte et puissante, riche de hault lignage
Mon chois est fait, aultre ne se fera.")

***

'Kate is my friend. That is true. But the songs were for her daughter. And the passion, for ever.'

***

'We have reached the open sea, with some charts; and the firmament.'

For good or for evil, the imperious 'I' had returned.

Cards on the table, we're both showing hearts

 

You're my downfall, you're my muse
My worst distraction, my rhythm and blues

 

 

Every word of this song is perfection, I am amazed how well it suits the characters as well as my emotions.

 'Kate is my friend. That is true. But the songs were for her daughter. And the passion, for ever.' 

...

'But I am her daughter,' Philippa said.

"The shock might mend affairs between them. Surely, when they see him, they'll be careful."

Yes, Philippa. Surely. It won't in any way be a disaster. *shakes head*