Bloodguard feels like a YA book in the simplistic writing, quick transitions and character interactions.  That said, it is definitely for mature audiences due to the violence.  Leith gets his handed to him, a lot.  How he stays alive, no idea. Very gorey and detailed, and I loved that.  Quite an imagination for a gladiator ring, but magic has no bounds.  I question the citizens loyalty and enjoyment of other people's demise.  People suck.  I enjoyed the magic systems including the cleaning stones in the bath so water never gets dirty.  Can I get that at my home?  The variety of characters was fun-elves, dwarfs, giants, ogres,humans, mages.  Fun time.  And while this book does have sexy scenes, they are very tame and classy. Overall, this was an enjoyable read with heart, comedy and snarkyness.  Worth reading for sure if you like epic fantasy that is not too complicated, is a complete story, doesn't take itself too serious in delivering some serious topics.