The Long Way Down (Daniel Faust) (Volume 1)

It's not new ground now, the paranormal/urban/noir/detective story. But there's a reason I keep buying and reading this type of story -- in the hands of a good storyteller the genre can be lots of fun. In the hands of a good storyteller with decent writing, plotting, pacing and characterization skills -- bonus fun!

For a first novel in what looks to be a series, Schaefer does a better-than-average job of creation: good introduction to the world of Daniel Faust, with gradual exposure of the world's magical system; good characterization of major and minor characters; motivations for those characters, and choices made by characters, are consistent and understandable; plot and goal, while far from surprising, advanced understanding of Faust, his history, and possible future.

Not that many writers achieve all those things in this genre!

What I particularly liked in Long Way Down was the sense of community and support for Faust. Too many writers don't take the time to create a balance of independence, family, friends and associates for their tortured hero. And, as the tortured hero, Faust is a bit tarnished, but interesting, intelligent, and ultimately admirable. By the end of book 1, a reader is left with the suspicion Faust carries secrets he keeps even from himself. I look forward to book 2.

There are a ton of "urban fantasy" books around, so when an author manages to find a way to stand out (plot, character development, etc.), it is a noticeable event. This one is well worth your attention.