I'm just starting my first reread of HH, and I'm enjoying it so far. It's a book that really doesn't everything out for you from the start.

Some people onlist are saying that it just totally changes track partway through the book and that was bad. But for me I just had no clue where it was going until it got there. And enjoyed that!! :-)

I found Hallana a bit annoying at first, but better later too. I loved Oswin as well. I wish we saw more of him!!

I agree with you on Earl Horseriver, I felt bad for him too at some points -- definitely a great villian! :-)