I did not rate this book as high as the 1st or 3rd book. Yes, I got the fact it's a transition book. I still wanted more. 
 More meaning, I felt the book was way short to the buildup to Mockingjay. There is a LOT going on and didn't feel I was in the middle of it. 
 Of course, since this was written for young adults, I am sure the author had to take that into account :) 
 Edit: my original 3 star rating is too low. Changed it to a 4. 
 But I have to say, I am glad I was NOT an early reader to the series as then I would of had to wait for book 3 (Mockingjay) to come out.