This novel was everything I didn't know I needed. Animal companions, magic, political intrigue, murder, a wonderful cast of characters, mystery, suspense, action, poisonings, NOSY, learning-in-a-castle, complete heartbreak... it all made for an utterly engrossing read. 
 Don't be put off by the slow start. 6 years ago I was put off by just that and now I'm furious at myself for missing out on 6 years of already reading Robin Hobb. Stick with it, get to know our sweet cinnamon roll of a protagonist, let his friends become your friends, his enemies become your enemies, feel sick with him, broken with him, even occasionally quite cheery with him, and you shall be rewarded with one of the most engaging, fully realised fantasy novels there is. 
 Word to the wise: at around 85%, turn off your phone, turn the lights out, make no plans, hide from any kind of social life. Do not allow yourself to be interrupted by such trivialities as food, water, or sleep. You will thank me.