It's an unusual romance, the writing is good and of high quality, gender distinctions are weakened, the plot is exciting, the protagonist's rise is a joy to watch, and there's not too much that taints the supporting characters [Compare Heart][Compare Heart][Compare Heart]
There is some stream of consciousness in the second half, but overall it is warm and healing, with a touch of warmth and a touch of sadness, like a gently flowing stream.