Kind of enjoyed the refreshing originality of this book, the tight narrative and editing, the descriptive language... But then, there were also a few negatives; occasional sections which seemed superfluous and did nothing to move the story along, the central theme of painting (which I'm sorry does nothing for me), and the land of Yod? (sorry, but it sounds like something from a cheap sci-fi/B movie).
First off, the idea of a letter as an intro was excellent. But then the first chapter or so became confusing, with too many names and dialogue which only added to my bewilderment. The story picked up however from there and I found myself appreciating the author's style, far more than I did the storyline unfortunately.
However, I would say that this book has plenty going for it and the writer is clearly talented. The series will hopefully be successful for him, it just was not my thing.