This is one of the most powerful (heartbreaking in places) books I've read in a long time. I'm not a fan of such inequality or brutality, but I simply couldn't put it down until the end. The history appears well researched and the writing was well paced and flowed well. 
 Good characterisation is key to me and the women here were strong and likeable, but I would have prefered to have seen a bit more individuality, hence 4 stars not 5. 
 A fabulous read and thoroughly recommended.