Reason one is that it comes across as racist. Read more about that: Justina Ireland and Fandom.
Reason two is that Cyra's power is connected to chronic pain. Read more about that: I Don't Want This Gift and As I Lay Reading.
Ms. D recommends that you read up on the controversy and understand what you might be getting into before you start the book. (also, read But You Don't Look Sick if you're interested in reading about how people handle chronic pain).
Cyra is the sister of the brutal tyrant who rules the Shotet people. Cyra’s currentgift gives her pain and power — something her brother exploits, using her to torture his enemies. But Cyra is much more than just a blade in her brother’s hand: she is resilient, quick on her feet, and smarter than he knows.
Akos is the son of a farmer and an oracle from the frozen nation-planet of Thuvhe. Protected by his unusual currentgift, Akos is generous in spirit, and his loyalty to his family is limitless. Once Akos and his brother are captured by enemy Shotet soldiers, Akos is desperate to get this brother out alive — no matter what the cost. The Akos is thrust into Cyra's world, and the enmity between their countries and families seems insurmountable. Will they help each other to survive, or will they destroy one another?
