Reviewed: - (Review Updated: )
Technically, this story had plenty of room for improvement. It was edited reasonably well, and while it has (since this review was first written) been re-edited, a number of things slipped through, most noticeably some odd (typographical) characters and some confused tense usage. A number of earlier issues have, however, been caught and fixed.
Now that that is out of the way, I must say that I really liked this story. Truly interesting characters, a rich setting, and a creative plot added up to make this a really good story. The way the story was told allowed a perfect way to end this book and still leave a clear opening for a sequel.
Anyone who likes coming-of-age stories, slow developing romances, and a touch of foreign culture I would definitely recommend this story to. Those looking for stroke would be best served looking elsewhere, as would those who are disturbed by excessive non-sexual violence and religion.
It seems possible that the sequel to this story may, in fact, benefit from a resumption, and I look forward to its (possible) completion envelope.