wow,  going through this series again has brought new things to mind about life.  when i first read these a year ago, i was rushing through, and didn't catch all the subtle beauties in it. it is just filled with such raw emotion, and pain, and love, and fear, and honor,  it is so cool.  i think everyone who hasn't read this series should at least read the first book. it is so great, and for those who are into torture, there is 82 consecutive pages of it, so have fun.