I think this is so much more intense than the first book because Katniss and Peeta did everything they could, yet they were still forced back into the games. Again, it's insane how much this applies to real life. I think Collins is a master in writing the effects of trauma on all of the victors. The actual games were short, with two thirds of the victors dead in 2 days. The people of the Capitol are gaudy and disgusting and yet they reflect the real life 1%. Trust the government to punish those that stand against the status quo. Also, Collins, that cliffhanger was insanity.