I enjoyed this even more than the first book. The story really comes together well, the two overlapping narratives. The two main characters are very well drawn and written. It took a little bit to get going, the first third I was kind of wondering whether it was going to go anywhere. It absolutely does and is moving and a great read. Now looking forward to the third book. I'd also like to read a high fantasy novel by Chambers, something a little like the fantasy sections of Fire Upon the Deep. I think she'd tell that kind of story very well.