I bought this having read Book 1 and thoroughly enjoyed it. I read this book in 2 days on holiday and left myself with nothing to read!! This book picks up from Book 1 and, properly, does not attempt to acquaint new readers with what has gone before. The characters are further fleshed out and developed. Glokta shows a humane side, Jezal is learning the art of respect, the Named Men become quite lovable as murdering buthers go. And,as in all good books, nothing is as it seems!! Once again, hats off to Joe Abercrombie. A cracking page-turner of a read and I don't even like Fantasy!! Book 3 here I come.