I appreciated what Ahmed was doing with the characters, particularly the older three – self doubt about the course of their life and the costs of their professions are an interesting way to deepen characterisation. After a while though, it all got a big whine-y, for me.

I thought the ending was a big, big mess – here the chopping and changing of viewpoint did the story a grave disservice – and curiously unengaging.
Oh, and the DAW paperback cover does the book no favours whatsoever.

Overall, a C grade from me – loved the different background, but the execution left a bit to be desired. Ahmed has talent, so it will be interesting to see how he develops.