This is probably the most realistic fantasy book I've ever read. Politics, misogynistic characters, racial tension, empowered women, and "modern" knowledge of medicine and science; if not for the magic and destiny being at the core of the story, I could see this being a political spy thriller. And thank god the illnesses weren't just another vague cold or magically induced sickness but something real!

The jumping pov of characters over uncertain time periods was unusual but not bad either. I don't think I even read a novel, but the first arc of a collection of loosely connected short stories set in chronological order, and, honestly, I'm here for it! It kept me engaged throughout. It's unlike any other fantasy novel I've read.