The Crimson Talisman: The War-Torn, Book 1

Not sure really what most of the other reviewers are talking about here. The tone is set very well from the first paragraph on, and that tone is exactly what an Eberron book is supposed to be - fast-paced pulp action. The writing itself isn't that bad, save for the usual typos the tend to be present in all WotC novels. Anyway, if your looking for a good Eberron novel to check out that is full of chase scenes, undead, and all around fast-paced action, give this a read!

I am surprised by the negtive reviews for this book. I enjoyed it very much and it is my favorite eberron novel yet. It was fast paced and very fun to read with a lot of cool monsters and characters.

It seems ( of the 6 people that have reviewed this book) that most don't like it. I'm not really sure why. To me this is the best written Ebberon novel to date (ok, so there's only three right now) but still... I have been trying to give the world of Ebberon a chance. The first two book in this world did very little for me. So, with some trepidation I picked this one up, and was pleasantly surprised by the rishness of the characters, the story, and the plot line along with it's various twists. I read one review that disliked the names in the book. To me Vaddi while an uncommon name (aren't most fantasy names uncommon?), seemed 'right' for the character. I have no qualms about the names. Onto the book. Right away the reader is emersed in the story. It almost felt like when you turn on a movie and miss the first ten minutes.. so much is happening that you're not sure where the story is going. Yet, I think Cole did this on purpose and with great effect. There are some things that the author intentionally keeps from the reader until later in the book. This makes the reader more invested in the story. This is the first novel I have read by Cole and would gladdly read another.

If you are a fan of the new campaign setting for DnD 3.5 (Eberron) then I suggest at least reading this book, the novels help drive the campaign foward from its start, illustrated in Eberron's Campaign Guide. It is a nice read flows similiar to many fantasy books found in the the DnD genra

I thought the Crimson Talisman was overall a well written book. The first half of the story is very dark and fast paced. It's easy to get caught up in the action and not want to put the book down. The Crimson Talisman also paints a vivid picture of serveral different areas of the new world Eberron which many people who play D & D will be interested to learn about. I think the book gives you a good feel for the setting. If you like high magic and heroes who manage to accomplish the impossible, no matter how out numbered, you will enjoy this book. I give the book only 4 stars for a few reasons. First of all I didn't care for the main characters name. Vaddi just didn't do anything for me. Second I think that the later half of the book just wasnt paced as well as the first half. It seemed a little rushed. Certain events did not need to be tied in at the end and could have been left for future plot lines. The author also uses a plethora of commas. When he uses them they add something to what is written but there are just so many of them it jumps out at you. It's not a bad thing just different. Over all I really enjoyed reading the story. The dark setting and fast paced beginning sucked me into the world. Being chased by hordes of undead and evil cults is just good times. The binding of the book and its cover art work were amazing. There is not a single crease in the spine of the book after reading it. Very well done. I'm sure someone will compare it to tolkien and draw similarities but someone always says that about every fantasy book. The unique setting really sets this book apart in my opinion. I can't wait to read War-Torn book #2.