I had the misfortune of only discovering this was the first of a series when I was near the end of this first book, when I looked it up on Goodreads. So when many plotlines were left hanging at the end, I was all the more frustrated and unforgiving, as I'd started the book anticipating a complete and satisfying story experience. (I think it's ethical for cover information to convey when it's part of a series, but clearly many in the publishing industry don't agree, or don't care.)

If I were to put aside the etiquette breach of having been tricked into reading it, and base my opinion only on the merit of a Part Oner, I'd say it's a good book for the patient of you. It's an intriguing gothic fantasy for those who are committed enough to push on though the inundation of mysteries and questions with no answers or explanations (that would be most of the first half), and are determined enough to source following books to complete the questions they'll be left hanging with. (Oh yes, there are many.)

While I'm curious to know how some plotlines turned out beyond the narration of this book, I don't feel sufficient loyalty to immediately seek out the following book. Not after the underhanded tactics employed to get me to read this one in the first place. If it had said 'Book One' somewhere on the cover, spine, or even the back, I imagine I would have enjoyed it much more. I wouldn't have felt betrayed and disappointed at being left with only the limb of a story. I may read Book Two later, but probably only when nothing else is in my lineup.

If you have a rainy weekend, time and inclination, by all means give this one a go. Probably better enjoyed if you have the next book to go straight onto.