Just like with book one, there is no slow start; it jumps right in. This is where Roland's quest truly begins and there is so much to sink your teeth into. We're getting to know Roland better. Still tough as nails, but with a little more feeling.
The only reason I gave it four stars instead of five is because the Odetta/Detta sections dragged on a little much, in Kings wordy fashion, but he redeemed himself after that.