I didn't always love the characters and choices, but I can't deny the main character is a strong lady. She begins and ends life in two different Iranian revolutions. The characters around her seemed to change with the times more than she - but I guess that's true with all generational differences. The Sufi mysticism throughout was fun, especially contrasted with Touba's rather traditional views. I wish I knew more about Iranian folk tales because I know they are incorporated, but I think I learned a little too.