Overall, I liked this book. I liked how Riq went through a more personal journey and you saw more of his caring side. I also liked that the SQ were harder to find and that they didn't find the Hystorian until most of the way through. This gave more twists and turns to the plot. This said though, I believe that Riq and James found their way off the mainland too easily, I mean a canoe in a tree? Really?
Anyway, I also enjoy the fact that the online aspect is a crucial part of the storyline. They go onto another break that is described in the book but only played through online. Though this might be a problem for people without online access or who borrow the book and are unable to use this feature; there is a brief description in the book that follows. It is also made so that the online and book adventures flow on nicely and for the people that do not complete these adventures online there are no new characters or crucial story lines that will impact their understanding.
I can't wait to head to Japan online and am happy to wait for the next book.