Parker's writing in this first book of the Fencer Trilogy is witty without being boorishly cynical like many contemporary fantasies. Unfortunately, although the story is replete with great ideas and interesting characters, none of them are properly fleshed out. In particular the intriguing legal system of Perimadeia (based upon a form of trial by combat) in which the main protagonist is employed is never convincingly explained despite its being the most intriguing aspect of the book. The Orbit pb is also marred by horrible typesetting and bad editing. Such reservations aside, however, there is much to enjoy in this relatively original fantasy and I have a suspicion that the next installment will be even better. ( )