Wow, I knew about that time in history but the way this author weaves it into her storyline is so refreshing and the elements of fantasy sing within this period of time. I loved the characters, the setting was so lush and the political aspects of the storyline, instead of turning me off as I am not a big political fantasy reader, drew me in. This is a new to me author that captivated me with this first look and I want to know more.