Soulsmith didn't have quite the momentum or intrigue of the first book, instead feeling more like an obligatory stepping stone to bigger and better adventures. We spend a long time expanding the world building - which while necessary and helpful, is not always the most engaging. However, the introduction of a key new character brought a ton of charm and mystery, which helped the second half of the book tremendously. 

Further, Wight still has me deeply rooting for our protagonist and his expanding companions. Watching him grow and develop his powers is addicting and keeps me coming back - stirring up an impatience that drives me to keep reading (even when I probably should be doing other things).

Overall it was certainly still enjoyable, it just felt more like a bridging narrative than its own complete story.