Good review. I got this game shortly after the release and have played it thoroughly. I have have enjoyed every game I have played and it is a favorite among our board game group. As you say the theme and setting are basically just flavor, though it is consistent. I am looking forward to the first expansion which will add a player and a new area.
Tip; if someone is buying up all the buildings, shut them down. It can be really easy to win if you have the Lord who grants bonus points for every building built, especially if you can combo them off. That being said, I like to buy the buildings even if I don't have that Lord as they can be very beneficial.