I have two very different opinons about this book.

The first opinion: This is a well written fantasy novel set in a post apoctalypic earth. The characters are very real and very vivid. Even the side characters, that are distanced on purpose, are unique and highly described.

The second opinion: This is an absolutely disgusting story about war, rap, and the evilness of one man. The length he goes to advenge his family is extreme. The lack of remorse and anger in a character so young is horrifying. The characterization of women in this novel is appalling. Wemon are no more then whores. The one possible exception is made worse. She is a temptress, evil for attempting to turn him away from his vengeance, and then just evil.

I finally decided to give the book four starts. In truth it is an excellent work of fantasy. Hanging on until the end of the book explains much. Although, there is no excuse for the horrible characterization of females. I hope this is not a continual theme in Mark Lawrence’s work.