I had a real problem understanding what the heck was going on during the first part of the book. Not sure if it was me or the book but after a while I was finally able to get a better picture of the story line and did enjoy the book. The character is always making wise cracks. sometimes to those who he is talking with, sometimes to himself, and sometimes to his mind reading flying-lizard that sits on his shoulder most of the time.

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a fun read

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Stephen Brust's Vlad Taltos series is a great account of a hapless assassin that is easy to pick up. Not only is each book so wonderfully written, they are not in any chronilogical order so you can start anywhere and immerse yourself in a world of fantasy that is far from the standard Orcs, Elves, Dragons, Wizards and gracefully rogue Assassins. In fact, Vlad relies on help from his friends including his cynical and sarcastic familiar. Vlad would have been killed off early in his life if not for help and luck that comes from the most unlikely of places. Brust has designed a world that is not only consistent and without afterthought but believable (as much as a fantasy novel can be) and by not including a map he allows the reader the kindness of letting their imagination add what they will to the landscape.

How can one comment on one book in a series that is so consistent and such a wonderful read as a whole story? I am not a fan of spoilers or previews but if you happen to have an opportunity to read any of this series I am sure you will wish to read all of them.

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Eighth in the Vlad Taltos series (although they aren't in chronological order and can be read reasonably independently).

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