I really enjoyed "The Just City", and found myself thinking about it for days. I loved 'The Philosopher Kings". The ending had me so riveted that I walked down the sidewalk for half a mile while reading. It was worth risking a stumble, as I burst out laughing a few houses from home. The previous book ends with the characters' plans tossed into the air, and this sequel plunges decades ahead. I love the characters. Despite being philosopher kings, they are quite as gallant, confused, and pig-headed as people in general, only much more interesting.