Okay, I really wanted to give this one a 3.5, but that's not an option and, in many ways, the book does deserve the four. It is a brillantly twisting epic masterpiece with lots of layered characters. It's world and politics feel more historical than fantasy, which isn't a bad thing by any means. It was kind of refreshing. 
 Make no mistake, this is a fantastic book! In the end, though, I'm afraid I've developed a sort of love/hate relationship with the author. Part of that has to do with him veering dangerously close to what I call "The Matrix Effect." I think my final opinion will rest on where the series goes next...which I'll know soon, since I ran out to B&N last night to pick up the second book as soon as I finished this one. 
 Write Me A World