If, like this reviewer, you are a fan of Lian Hearn’s series and all things Oriental, then this book is for you.  Ms Goodman’s setting is a cross between China and Japan and something all her own, paired with a great storyteller style which sucks the reader in from page one.  Eon tells the story in her own words which adds momentum, and she comes across as a resourceful and likeable person.  There is plenty of court intrigue in here, but if you are thinking of certain other tubby tomes which contain little else and have been put off this type of book don’t worry — there is as much action as in any more traditional sword and sorcery fantasy.  Such as actual swords and sorcery!  Certain cliché situations I thought I could see a mile off were neatly sidestepped, and the modest length had me wanting more, not wishing there had been less.  I think that unless I am very fortunate I will be voting this my favorite fantasy of 2008 in the Top Ten lists.  Very highly recommended.