Kushiel's Dart by Jacqueline Carey

This is the first book in a trilogy. I've heard about the books for a while and the fans seem to be very hardcore about it. I have seen women in costume contests dressed as the main character. Phedre carries the mark of Kushiel's Dart which means she experiences pain as pleasure. Because of the several people have said rather negative things about the books since she has her virginity sold at 14. I didn't find a problem with it since this seems to be the cultures norm and not an aberration. The setting is an alternate France. The religion and politics are very well thought out and I have to admit that I will be looking forward to the next book.