I love Fantasy. How new the author may be to the world of writing is negligible, how well they wrote their story is what counts, and this is one heck of a terrific Fantasy. It starts with a bang and draws you in immediately. You feel the oppression and the fear. You're hooked! :)
As the story blossoms into a fully developed world, you become closer and closer to the characters with their strengths and flaws. Perhaps the flaws are even more of a pull than their strengths! They're completely drawn and filled with life. THIS is what makes the difference between a story soon forgotten and one that stays in your heart.
I'm not going to give any spoilers here, just read the book and let the story surround you. You don't want to miss this one!