This one was my least favourite of the three. I felt like there were some pacing issues: the first third is a string of unrelenting out-of-the-frying-pan-into-the-fire situations followed by another third where barely anything seems to happen. The final third was better paced and the ending was glorious. 

I did miss the characters that were not along on the quest, as it was Fitz's relationship with the other characters is what really makes these books in my opinion. 

Also, I got a bit frustrated with how dense Fitz was being some of the time. And his stupid decisions!!!! 

However, the affection that Hobb built up for these characters carried me through the slog that was the middle third. 

The Realm of the Elderling series continues to blow me way (read *Liveship Traders* earlier this year). Can't wait to move on to the next trilogy, though I'll have to take a break, if only because once I start, I can't stop!!!!