It took me a long ass time to read this book, because I had to take my time to savor every single word. At one point, I considered DNFing it because I didn't want it to end. I'm weird. I know. 
 Poison Study is one of my favorite high fantasy of all time, but even I I have to admit, the second and third book sucked. I read them, and loved them, and rated them highly anyway because I absolutely adore the characters and the world. Valek and Yelena are my favorite couple of all time, if I had an OTP, they would be #1. 
 I am happy to say that this, the highly unexpected 4th book in this series, does not disappoint in any way. There is a special place in my heart for the first book, Poison Study, but my bias aside, this may be my favorite Maria V. Snyder book ever, and I've read almost every single one of her books. 
 Why do I love this book? As with the entire series, the world building is immense, amazing, incredibly well-meshed and believeable. From the emerging technology to the system of magic, I can't think of a single element that didn't fit well together. 
 The main characters are a fantastic couple. They're what I aspire towards, if I ever get into a long term relationship. Valek and Yelena's love for each other knows no bounds. They are soul mates, heart mates, friends...as well as co-workers and co-conspirators. They are partners, equals. There is so much mutual respect for one another. 
 Their trust in each other is a beautiful thing to behold. 
 Valek is an assassin, highly-skilled. Yelena is a liaison, a fighter as well a magician. Valek trusts in her ability to defend herself, and she trusts him. 
 Their job comes first. They may worry about one another, but their fucking job comes first. I love that. They know their priorities. They don't spend much time together, and that's fine, because their love exists beyond that. They don't need to be thinking about each other fucking 24/7 in order for us to know that they're still in love. 
 Valek's unwavering loyalty lies, not with Yelena, but with his Commander, the ruler of Ixia. He knew the Commander first, before Yelena, and though he loves Yelena, it is his duty and loyalty to his country and Commander that comes before their relationship. Yelena knows that, she relates to that, she understands that. She doesn't become a whiny little bitch. 
 The other characters are actually OTHER CHARACTERS. Unlike other books, side characters do not disappear into the background. Other female characters are positive models, strong. There is no sexism here. I've gotten to know and love the side characters throughout the series, and I am happy to say that they all play prominent roles here. 
 It was a hard book to read at times, bad things happen to people I love, and it was rough for me reading about them suffering. Yelena, particularly. But I know her, and I know she can (and does) take care of herself without anyone's help. I only suffer this much when I'm highly attached to characters. 
 See why I love this book? 
 Oh, and the main reason: more Valek. SO MUCH MORE VALEK. Valek as a child is pretty fucking terrifying. BWAHAHAHAHA. 
 If you haven't read this series, this is a great time to start.