A complicated, engrossing plot absolutely requires multiple characters. It provides a hardening-ish perspective which adds depth from multiple dimensions. It also is very hard for the writer who has to orchestrate all of the players (sentient, non-sentient, nature, etc.). From my experience, I can assure it.
However, this book has twice as many faces which switch off names so harakiri, that one reading the books would require note paper and several fingers between pages. Thusly, not well-suited for leisure listening. I had to stop when it became too tedious to follow.
I have no doubt that I would have enjoyed it more in hard cover (I hate spineless paperbacks).