First off, a disclaimer, I have read the previous edition of this book some 10 years ago, give or take and I found it "okay". I've forgotten almost everything about the plot and characters and also the tricks involved.

So, now that I've re-read it I can say that, while I still dislike some of the characters and specially the narrator, but the pacing, twists and overall plot and solutions are quite original and well along the lines of NisiOisiN's usual writing. I am quite excited about the sequels so I might read them sooner rather than later.