Prachett and Baxter's Long Earth was a good but ultimately disappointing book. The let-down being the sort-of cliffhanger, to be continued conclusion.

The worst consequence of this action being an undue amount of pressure on the sequel. So how does Long War stand-up?

Depends what you liked about Long Earth. If you're enjoying the sociological and cultural examination then Long War will be pleasing, despite the name Long War is at least 2/3 focussed on the effects of discovering the long-earth rather than having a coherent storyline for the main characters.

I'm afraid if you're reading this one for the main characters, plotline or indeed the War then Long War will only rate 2 stars. First of there is hardly any Lobsang, and there are numerous other characters followed than the interesting Joshua, and the relatable Jansson. Secondly after an opening tease of humanoids starting their own long-war this plotline doesn't even develop until the last eighth of the book, and while concluding with a touch of humour leaves one with a feeling deprived of satisfaction.

I'm assuming this is being set-up as a continuing series as there are many questions remaining, well one really - what is with First Person Singular? I for one will be continuing with it, but simply because I enjoy the analysis and the setting. I wouldn't be turning to this book for dramatic ravaging storylines.