The author seems to be too busy making sure we know how clever he is - and by dragging EVERY situation out to its most absurd to actually write a decent story with engaging characters. Considering the size of his cast of characters, you'd think there was SOMEONE to like! But there isn't. Pity perhaps, but no one you can like. I spent most of my time hoping for the "heros" to fail because that was what his universe deserved.