So a little context, the author of this book was feeling hesitant on writing this book. particularly on the two styles to write it in, his normal way, which the other seven books are written, and a new, lengthier version. So he took a chance and wrote out more words for the book. Giving himself room to paint a more expansive world and giving each of the characters more of a story arc, (poor Suriel ?). Characters feel more defined, motives are more grounded, almost none feel like they are cookie cutter characters. All in all, this book pays off most in not all the build up of the last book. Looking forward to the next book. Gonna go an listen to this 5 more times. BYE!!!