The world building in this series is a lot more magical and exotic than in the Farseer trilogy. Frequently when reading I had wished to get out of the Six Duchies and see more of the Mountain Kingdom, as what little was shown seemed more interesting. Here we get another location that has a lot of mystery attached to it. I loved that the prologue is told from the perspective of a tribe of sea serpents! 
 Early on I was getting odd vibes regarding the similarities between how dragons and liveships are created. I'm starting to see where she is going with it, but still can't guess where this will all end up. 
 As for the characters... 
 Wintrow. Too good. Too pure. And I thought Hobb enjoyed torturing Fitz. You got it worse Wintrow. My poor precious lad. 
 Love every little hint about the Rain Wild Traders. Reyne, I barely know you, but I want to know you a lot better. 
 Amber! I know who you are... *yay!* 
 Kyle: 
 Also, please just put me on the liveship Ophelia. Because she is a riot. 
 What can I say? I finished this last night and told myself it was late and I had to wait until today to start The Mad Ship. But I couldn't. I had to read at least a few chapters from it last night.