The book is well written, that is certain. It is as much a systematic theology as it is a book on prayer. I graduated from seminary with a Master of Divinity and still found this book to be dense reading. Balthasar is no foreigner to philosophy and uses the language of philosophy generously. In fact, I found him hard to follow at times.
I am glad that I read this book. I value any insight I can gain to grow in my own prayer pilgrimage. But, be forewarned, this is no easy read on prayer. I hope to find a better introduction to contemplative prayer.