This book is SO GOOD. I've been meaning to get this particular edition (because the covers are gorgeous) for years and then do a reread, and I'm so happy it's happening.

The world-building in this series is GREAT, I love that it's set in some sort of alternate reality that you recognize well enough without being cheesy or dumb. I like that it's semi-set in the past but there doesn't seem to be any obvious sexism going on, no one is questioning if a girl can do whatever, things just are the way they are. That is such a nice way to write fantasy.

And the characters are good, well-written and complex, with a plot that is constantly moving forward while doing interesting exposition without getting boring. It's just ... so well done. My only regret is not finding and reading this series in my teens because it would have changed my entire life I think. ( )