I'd actually make this 3.5 if I could . Took two years to read this, off and on. I kept persevering because every single list i've seen with books I enjoy has this series near the top of the list. I read in the reviews that the first 200 pages are slow. Well, it took nearly the first 400 pages for me to really get into it, but once I did - yesterday - I read until I finished without putting the book down. SO, happily about to read book two. Hoping it picks up with somewhat more speed than book one did.

The plot is complex and I found some of the characters compelling. I do recommend this book to patient readers. Smile.