This followup to the Hunger Games really shines when it further explores the world Collins established in the first book. Exploring the growing tension that stretches across the Districts ruled by the tyrannical Capital, the first half of the book ups the stakes considerably. However, halfway through the story backtracks, retreating into familiar territory and unnecessarily delaying the admittedly gratifying climax. 
 Also, a few problems arise with character development. The strong, confident Katniss from the first book is mostly present, but occasionally seems to be a little slow on the uptake when it suits the story. Extremely obvious plot threads are dangled in front of her face, only to be explained away by trite disbelief on the character's part. Kind of a "my eyes must be playing tricks on me!" situation, which never makes sense. No ones eyes play tricks on them. 
 On the whole, I am looking forward to the final book. If the setup from the first half of this book had carried throughout, this easily would've garnered a higher rating, but it seems like the true payoff will occur in Mockingjay.