If people show an interest in fantasy, this is the book I recommend. Great plot and 3D characters, with description aplenty. I even like the sex parts. What I aspire to as a writer.

   A- 

I liked this a lot, a different sort of fantasy. My nit pick of the overly detailed sex (as if I was a prude...sheesh) is what keeps it from being an A - it grated on me for some reason.

   A+ 

My new favorite book behind Tolkien (of course - isn't everything!). The characters, plot, background, everything is well-thought out and developed. Really a great story with some unexpected twists and turns. A story with a lot of magic that is not dependent or overwhelmed.

   A 

Great fantasy epic, and didn't feel rushed at the end. Ditto on the sex being a little much (such the priest am I...), but the end truly moved me. Some of the best description I have ever read; will read other books by this author now.