World building was interesting but the character development was often dry or lacking. Some characters seem to be pointless or fail to evolve beyond their generic archetype. Interesting book, but not interesting enough to read more than once. This book had the potential to be much better, but it felt like the author didn't want to put in the work.

Spoiler containing elaboration:
Brian Herbert dramatically set up the trial of Leto Atreides as he is framed for blowing up a Tleilaxu ship in neutral space. In order to prevent a war, Leto calls for trial by forfeiture, where his house title and assets are forfeit for the duration of his trial, and restored only if he is exonerated. The odds are against him, he has no idea who framed him, and he has to do something about it. And then, Brian completely shoots it in the foot by saving Leto with a deus ex machina instead of actually carrying out the dramatic trial. An utter disappointment, such completely wasted potential makes me reconsider whether I want to continue reading this series.