I admit that this is pretty heavy-handed, and isn't subtle at all. But it's effective! I loved the themes of prejudice and colonialism and racism and feminism and intersectionality and privilege. You kind of have a sense of where it's going to go, but it's so well-paced and well-told that I didn't care. I felt so much for these characters! Sciona is a flawed character with a good heart (deep down) despite her selfishness and ambition and blindspots. And Thomil is just so kind and strong but also complex. And I thought the world and magic system were innovative and well done. And it holds a (simplified) mirror to our world today.