As soon as I picked up the book and started reading; I could not set it down again...literally. If not for work, I would've finished it within one day. Great plot, typical fantasy plot; however because I enjoy reading fantasy alot, the twist at the end was a little predictable; but a very engaging storyline nonetheless. Loved the imagery the author was able to instill throughout the book - especially the fight between Chayne and Alyx written in a third persons perspective. I thought it was really clever and was really able to picture the whole fight in my mind as I was reading.

Great character development for all characters that allows you to really identify with their ongoing emotions and inner conflicts. Only character that I thought deserved more in this department is Jhonia; throughout the book I felt that I did not know enough about him and did not "feel" sympathetic or otherwise to the events surrounding him. If a little more time was spent developing Jhonia, I would have definately given this book the full 5 stars.

All in all, a great book that kept me on the edge of my seat. Just can't wait for the rest of the story to be revealed especially if they're all going to be like the first.

A GREAT beginning to and epic series!!! the detail in the fights are awesome and Joe doesn't hold anything back when it comes to describing a gruesome scene of fury. Alyx (the duel wielding figure on the cover) is a force to be dealt with, as he masters his enemies with cold steel!

A long time reader of fantasy novels, this one was a refreshing change! The twists left me stunned and curious what would happen next. The first few chapters were simplistic in nature outlining the lives of each character. By the end of the book the characters have gained real depth and I can't wait to see how the trilogy ends. It is one of the few books that I can't seem to put down!

The book was interesting and original. The characters were well developed and the plot was easy to follow. As I approached the conclusion of this book, it left me looking forward to the sequel. A must read for those interested in fantasy genre.

I get the impression that most of the people who reviewed this book are the author's friends. I am not enjoying this book at all and doubt that I will finish it. The idea behind the novel is good, but the descriptive material about the setting is poor, the reasons for the development of relationships among the characters poorly demonstrated, and the dialogue between them is even worse.