I just finished the book and I can't decide what I think. The end seemed to come and go a little to quickly for me after all the build up. I certainly was ripping through the book quickly enough and was enjoying myself along the way. I wonder if I'm just glum it's over. 20+ years was a long wait. Still, I left it still feeling as if the story wasn't quite over yet, as if Cook left some things open (with Mist's kids, with Bragi and Kavelin, with Haround, Yasmid and Hammad al Nakir, and with Mist knowing where the Star Rider might be from El Murid), which, given that my presumption is that this is certainly the last Dread Empire story, didn't set right. I also have a question that I'd love feed back on if anyone is able: Why does Mist recognize the Matayangan guru aiding the Disciple? Who is he supposed to be? Jerry Kalayjian