Joseph P.
I love fantasy like this. Hobb, like R.R Martin, draws on medieval history and world geography to build a realistic setting, which feels tangible without being eye-rollingly similar to actual peoples and events. The magic system also treads the mystical/real tightrope very well; it's not quite as physics-based as a Brandon Sanderson novel, but still compelling and believable. The way in which the characters take shape through the book is also remarkable, with each taking shape in a realistic and entirely human way, with internal and external conflicts a-plenty. As others have mentioned, the plot is slow to evolve. However, it achieves far better plot development than similar foundational novels in epic series, such as Sanderson's 'Way of Kings' (which I read prior to this and found a compelling drudge). All in all, I loved this book, the characters, the intrigue, the setting, the magic system, and the setting up of something greater. If I have one quibble, it is that the 'Farseer' or 'Elderling' breadcrumbs arrive a little too late and feel slightly shoehorned in. I might revisit this, though, as I haven't read the subsequent books yet, though I will be doing so at the earliest opportunity!