I got the hintbook too.
It would have been nice if it told you who gave you the quests and where to find the reward. I missed the text after Halriks Farm and now I dont know where the reward is would have nice been if I didn't have to replay.
In the maps there are letters but are missing a txt box explaning the letters that is very annoying.
The search function worked fine in my version.
I have to say this is a very big game so I am glad I have the hintbook.
I just started at AV5 and I can't get the supplies on the table,shield, bow and armour and the shoes on the floor?
My party have 8 points in nature lore.