This was a good read with an interesting take on the struggle between magic and technology. The plot is interesting, as is the magic system, and we are kept guessing about characters' goals and loyalties until the end. It's an old book, but for the most part it ages well, with the exception of its treatment of female characters. Any women making more than a brief cameo are ill, crazy, or only there to tempt a male character. 4/5 stars