From Booklist
Another compact and literate fantasy novel from Abbey that, like some of her other work, is likely to receive less attention than it deserves. To be sure, the plot is of a basic and venerable type: Emma Merrigan has received magical powers from her long-lost mother, whom she must now rescue by means of something not too far short of invading hell and engaging in a duel of magic with its denizens and overlords. Thanks to superior characterization, perspicuously detailed settings, a carefully and intelligently worked out system of good and evil magic, and brisk pacing, especially of the invasion of hell, even seasoned fantasy readers won't find it easy to put the book down until the last page is turned. Abbey gets extra credit for honorably, skillfully curbing the bloating tendency of most fantasy fiction these days.
Roland GreenCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved