Guy Gavriel Kay continues to be an author of rare talent, with a voice which is very much his own.

As with many of GGK's works, we find ourselves in a setting analogous to real world history, but twisted so as to allow him the freedom to develop the story whichever way he wishes. In this stand-alone novel the setting is reminiscent of the end days of Al-Andalus and Muslim-ruled Spain, and that idea of "the end days" is at the centre of it all.

That theme - "the end days". This idea of moments of beauty which cannot last, no matter how we try, permeates every aspect of the book from start to finish, whether it be in a larger, more historic scale, or even when relating to the relationships formed. Moments of wonder, made bittersweet by their ephemeral nature, but cherished all the more for it. "The deeds of men, as footprints in the desert. Nothing under the circling moons is fated to last. Even the sun goes down."

Added to that theme is Guy Gavriel Kay's signature writing style - descriptive, both up close and distant from events. Omniscient at times, limited when it helps build tension. To me it always feels like he is the narrator of a play talking to the audience, with turns of phrase which make scenes feel like more than just part of a story, but almost mythical in nature.

I highly recommend giving this book a try. It's a stand alone, the prose is beautiful, and the story relatable.