So it is intersting being back in this world and fun having Jorge mentioned. Was like having a cousin come to visit you haven't seen in ages. This is a lot slower paced than what we came used to with The Thorn series and the characters are trimmed down to really only the main two. But given all that, it is a fun read, but really doesn't plumb the depths of the previous series. 
 As an annoying git of a prince, Jaelen does a great job, The writing of the character is just enough to make him out as someone you'd love to slap, but not overdone where it grates your nerves reading about him. Kip Guile anyone?! 
 Snorry the Viking is a well rounded character, if somewhat, no, a lot, predictable. But I guess that is the nature of the norsemen is that are predictable in their actions and mannerisms. 
 It defineitely feels like a 'laying the foundation' book, the plot, whilst moving, kind of ambles along at a average pace, with lots of drunken tavern 
 scenes intersperesed with some battle scenes. 
 Overall it is 3.5 stars, but bumped to 4, just because it is great being back in this world. I do have big expectations for book 2 though. I need it to 
 step up the tension as well as the pace.