This review is from: Ilavani: Volume 1 (Kindle Edition)

Rhywiol brings a lot of complexity to her world right from the get go: autistic characters, accurate BDSM lifestyle, a whole new alien world with interesting political structures, magic and mystery, intrigue, and... well, lots of steam. ;) It's so COLORFUL -- the cover is accurate, I feel like everything scene was just bursting with it. Her writing was good, I had no problem sinking right into the world, and the pacing was right on. And, like I said, REALLY could see the color.

She had a lot of characters -- each more interesting and complex than the next. Even the "simpler" characters felt real and interesting. I didn't have a problem keeping them straight (and I'm usually iffy about multiple POVs), but I did feel like I'd JUST gotten to know them when the Volume 1 came to a (delicious!) close! (There's a bit of a cliffhanger, it's not bad, you'll survive.) I realize that's the point of a serial though -- and I thought this was a VERY interesting beginning and set up. You won't go wrong trying it out!

Great introduction to a series!

The world in Ilavani and those who populate it are intricate and very well developed. Admittedly I was a little confused at the start, but I quickly found my footing and grew increasingly fascinated the more I learned. It’s such a diverse universe with equally interesting politics. It got me thirsty for more.

This book is the type of mature story that I enjoy because it’s relevant to the plot and characters. It has a purpose here. Plus the relationship dynamics are progressive.

I was also impressed with the treatment of gender. It’s not often you see enby characters with respectful use of pronouns (first time I’ve seen xie/xyr written on page).

It’s sets the bar high, guys.

Very much looking forward to the next volume.