It's not the highest-brow literature but it is not meant to be. As far as fantasy adventure stories go, this is a really good example with well-rendered characters and plenty of pace. Don't read it without reading book 1 and having 3 ready to go straight after. It is very much the middle of the story and you're likely to want to pick up the next one straight after you finish it (it continues immediately with no break in the story).