I was not sure about this book in the beginning coming from the first one. It seemed a bit slow, and very political driven, which is something I like, but it is very different from the the final empire, and may not be for everyone. But then the last part of the book arrived and my mind exploded, it is incredible, which made me estimate the first half of the book a lot more. Everything that is told to you in the first part of the book is driving you to never expect what happens on that second part. The way it takes the magic system, that at this point of the story you think you know perfectly, and flips it to surprise you in a very emotional moment is astonishing. I really cannot put into words how I felt in that part of the book, it is without a doubt, one of the best storytelling i've ever encounter. Yes, it is a weaker novel than the first one, but the climax is so good that it really makes it worth.