Summary from GoodReads:

Once humans had magic and an alliance with dragons. Now they and the other races have been enslaved by the Rhonas Empire-the elves-and can’t even remember the world the way it used to be. But thanks to the intervention of one determined dwarf and the human slave warrior known as Drakis, all of that is about to change.

My Review:

I don’t know about you, but when I hear the following words I get goosebumps and a fluttery feeling in my stomach: dragons, elves, chimera, manticore, gnomes, dwarves and magic.

… Okay, so maybe I get that because I’m just a nerd.

But I can’t help it! I mean, I grew up on Fantasy – from as early as I can remember I was fed The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.  I dreamed about furry-footed little beings and fantastical scenarios!  So when I see what looks to be a good fantasy – I jump on it!

Lately I’ve been reading for my fantasy fixes some old authors, Tolkien being one of them, and some new-to-me-authors, Michael Sullivan and Brandon Sanderson.  Now I’m adding Tracy Hickman to that mix and wondering how in the world I didn’t start reading his books earlier!

In the interest of full disclosure though, I will tell you that it takes a while for this story to get started.  I was a bit confused with all the strange names and concepts, but once everything clicked the story really moved and I was drawn in and devouring every little scene.  This book had it all.  Traitors? Check. Really mean bad guys? Check.  Annihilation of entire races? Check. Slavery? Check. The little guy rising above it all? Double-check!

If you are in the mood for a good fantasy, this one will do it. However, it’s the first in a series.. and the rest aren’t out yet, so be warned!

Check out these review(s):

Crusade Against Boredom