I have the second book in the series as well.  There are both written instructions and charts for each of the shawls.  Once blocked, the beautiful lace patterns are very clear and defined.  Why four starts and not five?  Sizing.  When knitting in the gauge, the shawls ran on the small side for the recipients - these shawls knit perfect for someone that wears a solid medium size.  I adjusted the sizing by adding extra row repeats strategically. As for complexity, I am not a good judge for someone else.  I regularly knit "intermediate" patterns with no issues.  I recommend if you have a stitch that is new to you, to create a sample and practice the unfamiliar stitch for a few rows.  This way the stitch that is new to you will be even when you knit it within the shawl.  Happy knitting!