When I first read it, I came to it expecting another Blade of Tyshalle. I mistakenly thought that his change in style from Heroes Die to Blade of Tyshalle had been an improvement to a new style that he would then continue to use; I didn't realize yet that he meant to keep changing the way he approached each story in the series. So when I first read it I felt a little disappointed.

But I recently read the book again, and appreciated it much more for what it is. A lot of the things happening in the present, with the investigation of the Boedecken and the Knights of Khryl and all of that, don't come to a true head until the next book. It has a hell of a cliffhanger ending, though. And yes, the four year wait for the conclusion was full of anticipation.

The story from the past, and its connections to the present, makes for gripping reading. Even though you know going in that Caine is going to survive that part of the story and become a star, seeing how it happens is still fascinating, edge of your seat entertainment. It's illuminating to see how Caine used to be, before all of the years gained on him and he became, in a way, Overworld's greatest protector.

And then the next book ... well. Let's just say that the changes in style and narrative approach from book to book so far look small in comparison to what he goes for in Caine's Law.