Very good for a first in a new series. The plot dragged a bit in places, but I think a lot of that was trying to set the back story, the scene and the characters.  That beings said, it was a bit heavy on the grief thing.  It seemed like there was someone lamenting the untimely passing of the MC's grandfather on every page.  Ok, I get it, it's a bummer.  Stop bringing it up every 5 seconds.
 
Overall, a solid start and an enjoyable read.  This is definitely going on the list of series to watch.