I agree with you that it's not a problem that we get the 'twist' up front, because it's so much less about where we end up in this book than how and why we get there. Also agree that Three Seagrass and Mahit's relationship is getting more interesting and the power imbalance and, as you say, the particular nuances of cultural belief systems and how ideology affects every aspect of our selves is wonderfully played out.

I'm not sure i felt it was less complex, but I need to relisten to make that judgment. With both books, I remember loving them but only when I'm in the middle of it am I overwhelmed by the poetry and the large themes and small moments.

Also "Including the ones who just randomly get to be fat while being powerful" is such a wonderful line. Thanks for that!!!