Just under 4 stars so I rounded up. 
 A very good, fast-paced fantasy perfect for younger fantasy readers (and older ones, too, of course). A good pick for boys or girls (although there are few female characters who barely make an appearance) who don't want any romance with their adventure. 
 Gen has been bragging about being the best thief in the land, but he brags to the wrong person, ends up in jail and is given an offer he can't refuse. He joins a small group on an expedition to find, and steal, a magic artifact. Lots of poilitics but its not too heavy. Some violence, but it is not battle heavy. Gen is a likable lead. 
 I liked the twists and turns, but felt that the ending relied too much on deus ex machina. Gen is a resourceful character and I think that he would have succeeded without it.