This is one of the few books that I have ever failed to finish due to complete and total lack of interest. Sadly, there is absolutely nothing here to hold a readers interest, unless of course you are hoping to spot the next post-Tolkien cliche. I will give the author credit, at least he is up front in the introduction as to where his influence came from for this novel - and it shows in spades - but this is really a poor work, lacking depth in every aspect of the plot and writing.Just say no.