One needs to be invested in Miles & Simon (& Alys, & Gregor) for Memory to have its impact, I think.
Yes. It really builds on everything.

also, I didn't like the heterosexualising of Byerley, who I'd read as queer.
I'll probably have to reread at some point, because I still saw him as queer through it - just in a relationship of some sort with Rish. I may have been reading what I want into it, I know reading something for the first time I often miss things (one of the things that make rereading so much fun).

I must try to finish Sharing Knife -- before YT sign ups if possible, though I'm going to be frantically busy &/or away from home for much of that time.
*nods* Where are you at?
I should not say much about it, because spoilers, but the fourth book is very much my favourite.