I found the first in the series difficult to get into. The characters weren't over sympathetic. I persevered, and really enjoyed it. This sequel, however is instantly gripping. The characters develop interestingly, and the storyline is intriguing. I used to love Tolkien, but grew out of it. This is better by far - more realistic, if that makes sense in a fantasy, and with much more believable and less perfect characters. Excellent.