I listened to audible's audio book rendition. I found that the non-linear storyline evolution from the first in the series to be excellently utilized in the second entry. While reading I realized that with this style of writing you have to be able to seperate the diogetic information, You receive as the reader getting sources from all over the timeline and perspectives from all characters. From the characters themselves this becomes a little difficult as it relies upon you the reader keeping seperate POVs for each of the characters for them to pass from simply characters in a grand story to being real participants in the epic. If you can do this you will find that each character is quite complex and interesting in a variety of ways. Overall great book definately worth your time.