This book did start a bit slowly but it drew me right into it and never let me go. I liked the funny parts in the end, like Garion's encounter with Maidee, and the way he ended up stuck above the throne room. This book changed me a lot - that one line where they were scoffing Islena "She fancies herself a sorceress." I used to have the disgusting habit of imagining myself lots of things I wasn't - really powerfully psychic (I still belive I may be a little, though), slender, pretty, a good gymnast, a fast skater, none of which I am. Now I am careful, thanks to Islena, to not let my ego get away with me. I am much more critical of myself, rather than bragging only. Breathe deep seek peace, Tin