I really enjoyed this story. It was a nice break from tackling the novels. I read it between Queste and Syren, rather than Magyk and Flyte, but I think that made me appreciate it more. A character that was in this story showed up in the novels and I was able to place him and I felt like I had a bit more understanding for him than I would have otherwise. Also, this story made me love Simon even more. I realize he's not supposed to be likeable, as he's the bad guy or whatever, but he is simply fantastic. And the Marcia and Septimus plot that entangled itself with Simon's was fun as well. My two favourite Heaps in one novella. This little novella got snuck out on me. I had no clue the author was going to release one. This is one of my favorite series out there. It's very fun and inventive. The author does a great job of playing on spelling of words. And it's a smart series. I appreciate this little snack to tide me over until the next book's release. The only thing I didn't like about it was that it went back in time to between the first and second books. I would have loved one where the series stands right now.