I've read the first book in the series some time ago because of Micheal Sullivan's review:) It was compared to Riyria and that's why I gave it a chance. 
 Well it's nowhere near as great as Riyria but it's fast and enjoyable read and I can see some similarities. Definitely a good way to spend my evenings. Good idea and fast-paced action so it's never boring. And I liked the characters. 
 I have one major complaint however. Eli and his friends get away from every trouble too easy. They sometimes get wounded but either they get healed (Eli) or they are seriously injured and then they are mostly recovered after few days (Josef). You can be a tough guy. But I don't think that after taking few serious stab wounds and doing some bleeding you're going to be on your feet and traveling after just few days. I know that Josef's sword is responsible for some of his healing but still...it doesn't feel very believable. If you're looking for something more serious look elsewhere. 
 The Legend of Eli Monpress is a nice and light adventure. It's interesting and Eli is a mystery. He is a wizard and a thief but also he is a lot more than that and he's adventures are part of something bigger. I think I'm going to read all the books in the series because it looks like the story gets better with every book.