Instruct: Classify an Amazon review as either positive or negative.
Query: Not as good as the first book

The first book had a lot of tension and build up. This one didn't seem to have that well defined pace. I call it the "Frodo behind the tree" tension in honor of the wonder scene in LOTR's first installment where Frodo and friends hide behind a tree while the nazgul searches for them.In this story, the tension is never quite there. That's not to say it is devoid of it, but it takes a good deal of time to get going. A lot of the story have Valentine and Ali wandering around picking up supplies.Now, I'm not saying it is boring, but I don't feel it's as good as the first book. Having said that, I think the last few chapters are very good and introduce a new character who will add more to the coming books (I hope).Overall, I was happy to have read this novel and will continue with the series. Knight has his world down pat and tells the story with confidence in his narrative. Very good reading!