Dancers of the Dawn

Cinematic and incredible.

 I really enjoyed this book, right from page one the imagery is gorgeous, the story steeped in mystery and magic. I loved the descriptions of the music, the food, but especially the clothes-- to read detailed descriptions of each dress was very satisfying for me. The book is set in a desert, with words and details that (if the cover didn't give it away already) place you culturally in some fantasy version of an ancient Western Asia. One of my favorite things is that the book doesn't talk down to you by explaining Indian words, but assumes it's found its audience in someone who knows what a kurta, a tabla, and paneer are, among other things. The magic system was stunning and simple, the sisterhood/friendships complex and lovely, the romance no less fun for it's secondary status to the rest of the plot. The story DID end in the middle of the action, and I WILL be on the edge of my seat until I can get my hands on the next book, whenever it may be published.