I enjoyed reading this and mulling over its discussions of themes like how propaganda is used to fuel war efforts because I really fell in love with the author's writing style, though I won't call it an enjoyable time due to the heavy subject matter.
 
One of the fictional empires, Varkal, is disturbingly similar to Isntreal and I must admit it pleased me a little to read about how it was at the verge of decimation due to relentless warmongering. 

Alefret is an incredible, believable and relatable character and I loved reading from his perspective and being in his mind, though the torture, abuse, discrimination and ableism he constantly experienced were very hard to read about. 

The last 30% or 20% got a bit confusing and I am still mulling over what this imperfect ending is trying to say. 

Nevertheless, I know for a fact I will be reading the author's other books since this book gripped me immediately.