3,5 stars 
 This book both pulled me in and had a hard time holding my attention. 
 The world building was interesting and as the story unfolded it became stronger. The characters - especially the monk and our main character was really great, and much of the supporting cast was interesting. 
 The world building did take up a lot of time for parts of the book which did slow it down, however it payed off later but it made it drag at times.