First off, the cover is beautiful! It looks like a piece of art to hang on a wall. I would say that a lot of the start was set up, but it did a good job at filling you in without just describing the entire history of the fantasy world which I appreciated. You are thrown into a group of people and forced to play catch up, and it is much more entertaining. I also got a fairly good feel for the main character, and I didn't find her too annoying which is a plus. Above all, I found the alien aspect as well as the cliffhanger to be the main reason for wanting to read more. It was so sudden, creepy, and suspenseful! I want to know what happens next!!!