Plot: The first third has mostly subplots, in the middle a quest plot with political sidelines comes up. Most of the subplots are handled well, the central plot falls flat a little too often. The ending is downright offensive in how blatantly it sets up for the sequel. There is no temporary end to this; it's like stopping in the middle of a chapter.

Characters: The side characters do not get a lot of attention, but it is acceptable. The main character, however, is a problem. Whiny, idiotic, insensitive, arrogant brat. Even when redemption came around I couldn't bring myself to care.

Style: The worldbuilding is interesting, though there are a few concepts that do not mesh very well. The writing flows, mostly, but ideas and scenes get repeated too often for them to have any impact towards the end.

Plus: The political background is done in an interesting way.

Minus: The main character. Unbearable, vile, whining emo kid.

Summary: It's an average read. It has redeeming points, but the central character makes it hard to stick with the story. ( )

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