This one definitely changes up the formula a little. I kind of get the feeling that the author started to realize that there were a number of plot points not quite addressed yet. Things like the Ols, Dain, Tora, the Heir, and the Resistance. That being said, it's still a good story with a good deal of adventure and terror.

I really liked the bits with the pirates, having some human enemies to fight was kind of a nice change of pace from the normal monsters and grey guards.

Speaking of monsters, holy shit, the Glus is absolutely horrifying. I feel like Rodda keeps including these little glimpses of real genuine terror in these books, and it's always a joy to see. Also, pirates in a blowhole.