This book definitely expanded my vocabulary. Moue, mien, obdurate, odious, and unctuous are just a few of the words I learned. 
 It is beautifully written and kept me interested the whole time. Shahrzard is an excellent heroine; witty, outspoken, and confident. I also loved the relationship she had with Jalal, which was unexpected. 
 I wasn't crazy about the magical elements of the book, because it felt extraneous at times, but I suspect this will take on a larger role in the next book. 
 On a random note; the descriptions of food in the book all had me drooling. I wished I was Shahrzard because I wanted her food. We've all got priorities.