I read "the art of arrow cutting" (the first book of the series of 2 so far) many years ago. I enjoyed it very much, it was a great book, and i would recommend it. This sequel, however....eh. i see what the author is going for maybe? but with such rich characters and plot devices that basically allow for ANYTHING to occur on a moments notice, this just fell short of my expectations, i guess. if there is ever a third novel i will read that one and hope its just a case of the sophmore slumps.