I enjoyed this more than expected and I definitely want to own this at some point (and the rest of this series). The author does a great job at keeping the action focused around the two main characters even though this is epic fantasy where their actions have far-reaching effects. This book is actually two books combined. The first one is particularly strong since it establishes everything well, leaves plenty to be explained, and has a satisfying ending. I also like how the church is sort of the villain here and that there are plenty of gray characters. Not nearly as dark and gritty as Abercrombie's stuff though, which is fine by me.