Alec is a young hunter's son, captured and tortured, and waiting to die when he is rescued by a strange and multifaceted man by the name of Seregil. So begins "Luck in the Shadows."

I fought against reading this one for a while, until a friend of mine pretty much shoved it into my hand. I should have given in years ago, because I really loved this book's characters and story.

There are quite a few strengths to Lyn Flewelling's writing. For one, we have a society that is matriarchal, or at least equalized, without the typical "just reverse the roles" writing. This is not a simple society that Flewelling has written, but an intricate and interesting one.

Secondly, her use of wit - not just humour - is much appreciated. The plot is particularly dark in places, and her deft touch with an appropriate bon-mot is just what is needed to keep things light enough to be enjoyable.

If there are flaws, they're few, but sometimes one can tell that this is the first novel, in that scene shifting is sometimes a little bit clunky. It is entirely forgiveable, though, and the book is one I consider a must-read of fantasy. Be warned, however, that this is book 1 of 2, followed by "Stalking Darkness," and "Luck in the Shadows," will leave you unsatisfied by itself - it requires "Stalking Darkness" to enjoy it and to finish the tale.

Also, the relationship between Alec and Seregil is very sensitively written in this first book, with enough hints that you know they're going somewhere wonderful.

Flewelling is definately a strong new voice in fantasy, and I will follow her writing.

I really liked this charming book. It had a great mix of humor and emotion, and the characters were very easy to like. The book is about a sly, charming thief and spy, Seregil, who picks up an apprentice when he is captured and they meet in a dungeon. His companion, Alec,a modest, backward lad of fifteen, has an aptitude for theivery and sleight of hand, so they become partners. They work for the Queen, gathering information about the approaching war with their age old enemy, Plenimar. They also learn about themselves, especially Alec, as they traipse about the country, robbing and carousing. However, they are not simply roguish theives, their mission is much more important. When a magical artifact strikes Seregil and he falls into a coma, the responsibility of getting him to his teacher and friend, the wizrd Nysander, falls to Alec. In this, he proves himself, and through many other challenges they must face in the future. This was an amusing book, filled with wonderful jokes and hilarious situations. The characters were lovable and real, brought to life by the talented Lynn Flewelling. I recommend this to all who love to laugh and live on the edge.

Fantastic characterization, a lovable main character, and all the best elements of fantasy.

The thing I especially love about this book that made it unique was the focus characters being two thieves working together. The story unfolds in the eyes of the main character Alex who meets up with mysterious Seregil when they are both imprisoned by the same nobleman. Orphan and roamer Alex is dragged through the world on the coattails of this mystery man, travels to faraway lands from his privincial home, and gets embroiled into the midst of great intrigue amidst the first churnings of war between two countries.

As the somewhat clueless, awkward young man begins to experience things he's never met up with before, you see a new fantasy world unfold in front of his eyes and your own (including some unrequited (so far!) man-to-man romance, always a plus in my book).

Great fun, great read, can't wait for more...

It is very rare that one comes across a new author whose work leaves you clammoring for new material. Lynn Flewelling is one such author. Having only recently read Luck In The Shadows, I was thrilled to find the sequel just out on the shelves. This epic fantasy weaves together the many different threads that make for a superior fantasy novel - strong, well developed characters that you care about and believe; an intriguing plot which you do not figure out by the start of chapter two; and an appropriate blend of fantasy and reality. Stalking Darkness ties up almost every plot line started in Luck In The Shadows and mamnages to provide numerous surprises including the death of __________. Enjoy the book and luck in the shadows to you all. Michael Bank

This magnificent sequel to Luck in the Shadows is a real page turner! Flewelling's fluid writing and awesome imagination has brought to life some of the most fantastic characters in Fantasy (or any other) fiction; a time of magic and portents, mystery and intrigue. This novel has tremendous atmosphere. The two main characters, nobleman/spy/thief, Seregil and his protege, Alec, together with a small band of loyal companions, must follow their destiny to stop the ancient evil of a terrifying god. There is too much in this book to actually sum up in a few words. Suffice to say the author creates characters you come to care for very much. Both Seregil and Alec have mysterious pasts that the reader will look forward to discovering all about in (please!...hopefully) their further adventures. This is a book about friendship and loyalty, good and evil. It's witty, charming, exciting and filled with surprises. At times I laughed out loud, but there were also many touching moments, and you'll find your gaze briefly scanning the next page in anticipation. I loved Stalking Darkness so much I bought extra copies for friends and relatives who loved it as well. But it looks like we'll have to wait until the latter part of 1998 for the sequel, Traitor's Moon!!... I shouldn't wish my time away, but... Anyway, please give these two Fantasies a read (and re-read). You won't be disappointed. Her characters will live lovingly on in your memory ... (Seregil is a Gem!!

What can I say about this book(and it's predecessor "Luck in the Shadows") that can give you any idea of what your getting yourself into the moment you start? These books are surprisingly incredable. I wont lie to you, I bought them based only on the fact that I heard there was a male/male couple. I was thrown into a world I quickly fell deeply in love with. The writing style is refreshing, descriptive but not long-winded. The characters, both good and evil, are rich and full of color. I've come to love each and every one of them(ok maybe not the necromancers but you get the general idea ^_~) I cried for them, laughed with them, wanted to comfort them or go off and kill their enemies. Seregil and Alec are two of the coolest characters I've read about in a long time, and I even came to love Thero by the end. The female characters even though they're parts weren't as large as the males, were strong willed and wonderful. I guess if I had to sum up Lynn Flewelling's writing in one word it would be Addictive. I highly recommend this book to anyone willing to stay up long into the wee hours of the morning reading ^_^

I practically read this book from cover to cover in one sitting. It is an awesome story with depth, characters and clear writing. If you love good fantasy with a twist of darkness, this is the one.

Young Tobin is living a lie, for the Prince is in reality a Princess, disguised through magic at birth through the death of her twin brother to protect her until she comes of age to claim her rightful throne. But first, Tobin must survive a harrowing childhood filled with deception, from the insanity of his poor mother to the wicked threat of exposure through the Harrier Mages (who are seeking to unite all mages under their thumb, and executing those who refuse to join them...).

Non-stop action, wonderful characters, dialogue and intricate scenery all make this a meaty read. It's not one you can put down easily.

I personally am impatient for the next installment, and hope I won't have long to wait. A great book for winter night...

This book was impressive.

Maybe it's only a fantasy book, but the characters seem so real that the only indication that its world is not the same as ours some centuries ago is the little magic used in it.

The main character is Tobin, a feminine child whose real identity has been hidden in order to save her life from the king who wants to suppress every feminine heir to the throne: a spell has changed the girl's appearance into a boy's. A prophecy links Tobin to the throne: she must become queen, otherwise her land will be destroyed...

The "boy" (Tobin doesn't know his real sex) is haunted by his twin brother's demon, murdered at the moment of birth, and by the dangerous presence of his mad mother. The character description is among the most spectacular I've ever read: the author tells with unbelievable richness how the boy feels. Tobin is a real child: he suffers, he hopes, he feels lonely, he fears, he loves his parents and his few friends.
Growing without any friends and only with some old servants and foul spirits trying to harm him makes Tobin wary of people and you suddenly find yourself straining to catch and help him: he is such a wonderful character that he takes hold of you and never let you go.

Fantastic.

After buying books in this market that I have found either boring and/or repitious, I picked up this book because of the reviews in the front. What a GREAT choice I made!! The characters in this book are so REAL that you feel as though you know them personally and you ache for them, and feel their joy. The story-line was fantastic, and I had a hard time putting this book down. I can't wait for the forth-coming titles in this series, and I will definetly be purchasing her other books soon.

"The Bone Doll's Twin" is a book I will read over and over again, and I rank it right up there with my beloved Anne McCaffrey (Any and all Pern novels), Raymond E. Feist (The Magician series), David Eddings (Polgara and Belgarath), and Stephen R. Donaldson (The Chronicles of Thomas Coventant). All of these authors have characters and stories that linger with you for days, and "The Bone Doll's Twin" will linger with me until the next one comes out, and for many years to come.

For any true sci-fi/fantasy fan, this book is a must have!

Well, this has been an enjoyable past week for me as I finished the 3 books of Nightrunner series. However I did regret buying
them at the end of Traitor's Moon because I have a dreadful feeling that the 4th book may never be written. And this will be a pity because the 3rd book is a solid bridge for more plot and character development. Lot's of loose ends - What exactly is Alec's heritage ? Thero's destiny ? Development of the raging war which threatens to engulf Seregil and Alec as they returned to Skala? Right, Miss Flewelling mentioned in her 3rd book that this is not a trilogy. But she left the series and started another trilogy which is focused on the ancient Skala Queen Tamar, aeon before the world of Nightrunner series. I am disappointed she did that because it meant if she ever returned to a 4th book of Nightrunner it will be published probably in 2005 or 2006. Christ ! I thought the Wheel of Time is the worst!
Traitor's Moon is not as fast moving as the first two but the characters development is more fascinating and engrossing. The characters mature before our eyes. We see Seregil coming to terms with himself which I find touching. Alec as devoted to Seregil as ever. The bond between Seregil and Alec shines and these 2 soul mates have become my favorite characters in fantasy series after Cal and Pell in the "Wraeththu" series. The side characters are also a rewarding read, Thero's potential to be a great and wise wizard, Beka's love for an Aurenfaie. Sigh ! I just wish Miss Flewelling has just adhered to the development of this series.

I can't begin to say how much I have enjoyed the Nightrunner Series, and especially "Traitor's Moon". The book takes Alec and Seregil (along with Beca - in charge of her own troops at last) back to Seregil's home - a home from which he has been exiled. The book succeeds on many levels, it's an exciting adventure, but also explores the themes of isolation, family strife and prejudice. The interpersonal relationships are beautifully written, and Alec & Seregil's growing bond is a joy to read. Though I have a large number of book cases in my home, there is one special shelf that contains Tolkein's "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings", Ursula LeGuin's "Earthsea Trilogy", and Raymond Feist's "Riftwar Saga". Flewelling's "Nightrunner" series has been added to that shelf. I anxiously await the next installment. (And thank you, Ms. Flewelling, for make each book a self-contained story within the overall story arc of the series!)

This is not your typical Sword and Sorcery novel; it's a beautifully crafted story continuing the adventures of two of Fantasy's most endearing characters. The blossoming relationship between Seregil and Alec is, in my opinion, the highlight of this story and told so poignantly that you just *know* these two were meant to be together. They're witty, charming, loving, courageous and outrageous - and I just love them! The story itself is filled with atmosphere, sight, sound and suspense and you'll find yourself furiously turning pages (and even anxiously sneaking peeks ahead of yourself). Traitor's Moon is one of my "if I were stranded on a deserted island" books; the other two I'd make sure I had on hand would be Luck in the Shadows and its wonderful sequel, Stalking Darkness. Ms. Flewelling is a true storyteller.. and I can't wait for Book 4!

I was dying to get this book for over a year expecting it to blow my mind more than The Bone Doll's Twin. Unfortunately in style and substenance it a lot less than The Bone Doll's Twin, the story line seems disjointed. It seems as if Flewelling couldn't get the story to go, so she changed the nature of her supporting characters in order to fit a set story line which in ways diminished both them and the plot.

If you've read The Bone Doll's Twin then you have to read this because the story itself is fascinating. I just hope that the third book will live up to the hopes of the trilogy.

Flewelling's work has been a personal favorite since I discoved The Bone Doll's Twin last year. This is a very worthy sequel- and the woman sure knows how to write a cliffhanger! i found it early (someone up there must like me- i think my bookstore put it out by mistake) and finished it in two days. I loved every moment. A very, very good book

The Bone Doll's Twin was a very pleasant surprise in the fantasy field which seems drowned in unlikely politics and shallow characters. I was looking forward to its sequels, and this middle book did live up to my expectations. It avoids the middle-book-in-the-trilogy problem, it has quite a lot of action and development while still leaving a lot to happen and be revealed in the final book. On the downside, I was a bit confused by all the secondary characters, because it had been a while since I had read TBDT, perhaps a character list would have helped with that.