Generations ago, goblins ruled humans impacably and mercilessly. They were overthrown, and all but a few of the former rulers (the Maglore) are destroyed. The few that survive are driven into hiding where they have remained for centuries, until all but a secret sorcerous order, the Specularii, have been convinced the Maglore were but legends. Now, the time is ripe for the Maglore to reclaim their lost thrones and crush humanity once more. Even as they subvert the current human kings and steal the various Goblin Jewels (really magical mechanical devices), no one but the Specularii and Wilrowan Blackheart even believe they exist, let alone stand in their way. The Maglore are great characters, and I love the world Edgerton has created, but Wilrowan’s clichéd romance with his sometime-rival Lilianna of the Specularri is horribly boring. The two main characters (Wilrowan and Lilianna) drag the story down; it’s an enticing adventure but for their presence. ( )

http://startredder.livejournal.com/376644.html#cutid1 ( )

This author is a gem. Although things get disappointing in the end...a lot of stuff left unfinished. I think its because the author planned a sequel eventually. In any case its well worth the read. Edgerton creates a fantasy world that is so rich in detail and history. Her characters are very well drawn. This is an author to keep your eyes on! ( )

A weaker effort than Edgerton's other quasi-Georgian novels (Goblin Moon and The Gnome's Engine), but enjoyable nonetheless. The characters are fun, though there are a LOT of them. It also seemed as though this one was being set up very heavily for a sequel that unfortunately never was written. Consequently, several storylines seem to be left hanging. Overall, an enjoyable storyline and an engaging cast of characters, especially for those who enjoy fiction set in the late 18th century. ( )

Interesting read. Georgian feeling period piece. A good mixture of politics, action and romance. I was first annoyed with the main characters and then came to like both Will and Lili, I both understood and empathised with the issues and problems they had. It was a different experience to see how the pair dug themselves further and further into misunderstanding with lies and half-truths. What happens when they start finding out the truth about each other and the real feelings they have for each other makes this a very compelling read. ( )