Hype can be a letdown. I think that's my biggest issue with the First Law right now. Don't get me wrong, it's good, but after years of everyone saying it was the best thing, I expected it to be mind-blowing, and at this point, it was just good.

The characters, plot, pacing, world-building, relationships, themes, and intrigue are all excellent, but it didn't click like I was hoping it would.

That being said, as this was probably just a matter of timing and mood if the other 7 books in this world are anywhere near as good, then this will be one of the top fantasy series of all time.