I enjoyed the setting and the unorthodox characters. The action sequences are very clear and exciting. the contrast between the points of view and the Union vs the North etc. is well portrayed. I found Logen and Glokta most interesting. Even thought this has a reputation for being the grimmest, darkest fantasy out there, I found the writing style and humour kept it (oddly) lighter in tone than other so-called dark fantasy that I have read.

It would be nice if more stuff happened a little quicker though and it feels like the whole book is just there to setup what comes later. As I had all books to hand this wasn't a problem for me.