Fairly generic fantasy stuff; nothing particularly exciting or new-very good if you're looking for an easy, enjoyable read without too much brain power needed. There isn't much character development though they all seem likable in their own special way, or unlikable if like me you enjoy that sort of thing. I haven't read any other Trudi Canavan books, though from other reviews I'd say it's best to skip this trilogy and read one her others, instead.