Changes

All of the characters are beautifully depicted - elves, dragons, human… all share fantastically believable characteristics. The humanlike dragon, the dragon-like human, in superbly witty role reversals. This was the greatest attraction for me of the novel, and Holt's ability to sketch characters is truly remarkable. He has a deftness of touch, which brings each of them alive in an almost palpable manner - even the dragons! The parent/child role reversal was also extremely amusing, and done in such an original way, I found myself laughing out loud at the exasperation felt by Frank - whether as a child, or the child/adult!

''She was no more than a hundred yards away from a fully grown bull dragon currently dying of extreme indigestion… That was what made dragon -slaying such a doddle, although you never let the client know that. The client imagined you hacking at the dragon with a bloody great sword…''

The plot is slick, although I found towards the end it started to drag somewhat, with numerous twists and turns and the inevitable returning from the dead… many times over! However , this is a minor criticism, and one which Holt purists and fans will no doubt find perfectly acceptable, delaying the inevitable conclusion for as long as possible. But a trifle long -drawn -out for my taste: in fairness to Holt, he does succeed in maintaining the momentum at all times, which is no mean feat in this genre.

But the themes throughout, despite being cloaked in humour did have a serious underlying message. Whether sympathising with the dragons losing their hoardes hoards of carefully accumulated gold, or Frank pondering upon the mysteries of life and love, there was plenty to think about. Not in any profound manner - the humour was too first -rate for the reader to become sidetracked, but nonetheless I very frequently found myself empathising with the characters, and their numerous dilemmas.

I'd like to thank the publsihers publishers for sending a copy to The Bookbag.

If this type of humour appeals to you then we think you ought to have a look at [[Lamb by Christopher Moore|Christopher Moore]] as well. You might also enjoy [[Barking by Tom Holt]].