I don't know what I expected with this book. I don't. But I've read quite a few of Richelle Mead's books, and this just didn't compare. I didn't expect brilliance, but as someone who enjoys VA and Bloodlines, I expected a bit more from this story. The saving grace for me was definitely Carter, and that redeemed the end of the book. I would have enjoyed this book much less if it weren't for him. I want to continue the series, and I will, but mostly because I like Richelle Mead and her stories, rather than because the first book hooked me and didn't let me go. I didn't dislike the other characters, as much as I found them a little static and wanting in regards to genuine motivation.