I think Middlegame was far stronger overall. This was too handhold-y for much of it (and so repetitive), but then other things that could have used elaboration were just glossed over. 

I will still read any further Alchemical Journeys books, but feel no need to re-read this one any time soon. 

[eta] I keep lowering my rating because the more I think about it, the more annoyed I am with how there was little to no climax and that the antagonist(s) received zero development.