Anvil of the Sun (Cloak and Dagger, Bk 1)

Rating:
Summary: Enjoyable tale that leaves you waiting impatiently for more
Review: This was a great first novel. Groell has an amazingly rich storyline and her dertailed descriptions of Ashkharon just paint a vivid picture. The only real weaknesses in this book were the characters. Thibault seemed a little to worshipfull of Jenifleur. While The Hound and The Falcon seemed at times like a bunch of bumbling idiots instead of the highly trained and experienced assassins they were supposed to be. Other than that this book was neato. Hopefully those characterization flaws will be cleaned up in the next book. I know I'm looking forward to it.

Rating:
Summary: Good plot, weak characterization and dialogue
Review: What a facinating contradiction this book is. The plot is amazing and original. Ms. Groell has used magecraft to simulate modern technology in a totally unique and refreshing way. And yet... her characterizations are quite weak and her dialogue is so inconsistent with her medieval fantasy setting that I found it jarring. Despite the flaws, which were serious, I think this is an excellent first effort.