This is a hard book to recommend, even though I really liked it. The protagonist are despicable and have no redeeming qualities, except perhaps a devotion to each other. Both are selfish, vile, violent, greedy, vulgar, uncouth, ignorant...the list could go on and on. Not only did they seem to attract other unsavory characters, they corrupted everyone they came in contact with. So, any reasonable person would ask, "Why did you like this book." It was a fascinating story. It takes place in 1300's Europe. It's a very hard place to survive, and witches, demons and other dangerous creatures don't help. Although I can't say I liked the Grossbart brothers, I always wanted to know what was going to happen to them next.

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The few seconds during which I empathized with the protagonists made me feel like a terrible, terrible person. Also, this book is not for the faint of stomach, what with pus-spewing plague demons and lots of gory swordplay. Gah! What can I say? It's definitely well written, but every time I put this book down I felt like I needed to wash my hands. With bleach. I'm both impressed and appalled by the author's skill.
I think I would recommend this book. Maybe. Proceed with caution...

*Okay, I reread my review about 10 minutes after posting, and I've changed my mind about my recommendation. This is a horribly, disgustingly good book, and you should READ IT. The Brothers' way of rationalizing their actions until they see themselves as pious heroes is fascinating stuff, and there are a ton of great/greatly-disturbing supporting characters. If you're wavering at all, just go for it! ...but don't say you weren't warned.

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