It was BRILLIANT!
The beginning was a little slow, but it picked up pace and ended beautifully. I was not satisfied with the ending but I think after PG, Stroud wanted a lighter book, for which I was glad cause I had just finished reading the trilogy.
Asmira was truly a contradiction as mentioned, and Solomon, I had faith in him, somehow I always knew he was awesome.
Bart is Bart, no words, English or otherwise, will have enough compliments to suffice him!
But most well handled was the setting. I mean its easy to picture modern London, but ancient Jerusalem at the height of its power is a little more difficult and yet, it was nicely done.
I like the fact that the ring pains its wearer, shows compensation for power, nothing comes for free.