In a short time, the author does a great job of blending intrigue with exposition - giving the reader enough information to understand what's going on and hints as to what's to come. The overall effect accomplished its goal: Making me chomp at the bit to read more (in the interest of full disclosure, it helps that I've got a background and strong interest in the behavioral sciences). If the beginning is any indication, I'd say this one stands an excellent chance of being a winner, at least in my book.