Oh, btw - if you want epic fantasy with an awesome female lead that's filled with international intrigue, alternative history, the wrath of angels (this isn't Christianity) haute couture in the middle ages, daring sword fights, BDSM, star-crossed love, high romance and decade spanning friendships, you really, really, really need to read Jacqueline Carey's Kushiel books, starting with Kushiel's Dart.
I can't recommend those books enough.
I can't recommend those books enough.