I didn't expect to love this book as much as I did. It's not in a genre I'd normally pick up (then again, I'm having trouble identifying what genre I'd truly classify it as...), but it's something I'm so thankful I did read, and I plan on reading it again. In fact, it's taking a lot of concerted effort to not go and begin reading it again right now...but Kushiel's Chosen, the second in the trilogy, should be arriving tomorrow or Saturday, and I want to keep going.

All that being said...I'm not sure I'd recommend this book. Not a blanket recommendation, anyway. This book really is not for everyone. But if you have an open mind and are willing to explore the many facets of darkness and light, pleasure and pain, truth and deception that both humans and immortals are subject to...well then by all means, I encourage you to fall in love with Phedre as I have. (After all, as the Blessed Elua says, "Love As Thou Wilt.")