Meh, you don't have to pat yourself on the back Ed. You know we'll do it for you...
Honestly, the handbook is awsome. I suggest starting with the Time Line and History that covers the First, Second, and Third Generations of Layonara. Then move on to the Deities where you can get a feel for how the world is run. (Don't read everything about every deity, just the overview, and a little extra on the ones you're interested in) Then I'd move over to The Continent of Mistone, reading about the different cities and geographical marks (forests, mountains, ect...). I'd then read up on the different "people" of Layonara. Queen of Mistone, King of Dregar, Blood, Eon, Dreznab, Xandrial, those Witches whose names I can't remember but probably should know by now...
Also a small warning. The Handbook (from my experiance) isn't intended to be read straight through... believe me, I've tried. I find it works best to skim over it and read up on the things you're interested in at the time, then frequently head back to do research even on the most mundane things such as which spell has what spell component.
Anyway, Welcome to Layonara! I'm sure you'll enjoy yourself. Look me up in game, and get well soon. ZV-
