The plot accelerates quite a bit in this volume, and the metaphysical portions of the story come into greater focus. I almost expected some sort of Philip K. Dick Valis moment when King Mob states that one of his names is Morrison, but that appears (at least now) to be a red herring.

The characters seem more likable now, but honestly some still seem crudely drawn (from a narrative, not art point of view) and function primarily for convenience more than anything. For example, King Mob: why do I care what happens to him or what he's doing? Yes, he's there to STOP THE BAD GUYS, but I don't really know enough about him to care. Certainly, not enough to care that he's the central figure in peril.

Speaking of characters, lets look at Dane McGowan who if you believe the casting text at the beginning of the volumes is supposed to become the next Buddha despite being one of the most unlikeable bastards in the books. That being said, there's some character growth here, and enough information to pique my interest in some of the other characters.

Honestly, if I hadn't bought the first three volumes at once I wouldn't have come this far in the series, but now I have to say I'll probably eventually buy the next book to see how things develop. That being said, if that one doesn't knock my socks off, I'll probably call it quits with this series.