It took me a very, very long time to get into this book. I think my biggest issue was with the main character. She seemed to be making rather dubious decisions that, really, were just…stupid. I understand that she was looking for some kindness and the man in question pushed the right buttons but come on now. Her choices made me question her intelligence and that’s never a good thing. However, she was redeemed at the end which is not exactly a very good thing since it’s the end of the book but since this is a series, the book succeeds in leaving me interested (finally) in the main character and the adventures she will have as she comes into her own self and finally comes to terms with who and what she is.I also was expecting some steampunk and there is some but it’s so faint, it’s just like the smell of beef in a broth that contains none. That aspect is also developing so I can see its potential when the series continues. As for the romance (or the lack of it), I wasn’t too bothered by it. I mean, it exists, somewhat, there are complications but all in a believable sort of way. There are no swoony bastards that you’d want to kiss as well as kill. Just as well.How should I word it…hmm…for a book that deals with the fantastic, we are presented with very human characters who retain their human-ness despite the um fantastic. The world building is very concrete and the side characters are quite compelling so the book deserves credit where it is due. Apart from the lackluster protagonist, I found the novel to be engaging and probing at rather sensitive issues such as discrimination, genocide, usurpation of land and resources, the little book packs a punch if you let it.I really think this is a book you should read and make your own mind about. As I said, the main character was an obstacle to my enjoyment but that doesn’t mean you will react to her the same way. Besides, she kinda grows on you. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series.
