I have enjoyed this series (somewhat unexpectedly) since the get-go. And this book has been the best so far I think. I continue to enoy Pharaun, but the book's biggest plus has been Danifae and Quenthel. The battle scenes are well done as we get more one on one battles instead of the large scale stuff. Perhaps best of all is the romp thru the swamp with the surprising ending. I will say no more.