I enjoyed this more than its predecessor. I think the plot and the intrigue have more of the Jemisin luster. We get to learn more about the Banbara who were mentioned in The Killing Sun. Hanani is a compelling protagonist. She's religious and devoted to the Hetawa, but her male peer's rebuff make her question if she should find a more fulfilling path. Jemisin creates side characters who are very intriguing in their own right. The sex scenes are more muted compared to her other books (fitting, given the emphasis Hananja's emphasis on pleasure as peace) but still well written. The brutal customs of the various groups beg a deeper reading and lend themselves to themes of redemption, necessity, and order.