@Lingon: what Korash said. While on the surface the elves and dwarves have a lot of similarity to bog-standard D&D races, Moon puts a lot of thought into their culture and attitudes. They feel like actual separate races, not humans with funny ears or beards. And yep, the character development is great as is the military background (including a great look at what a functioning mercenary company might look like - the only similar thing I can think of that's better is the Black Company).

I can't speak to the Gird prequel books or the newer volumes as I haven't read 'em, but I'm sure I'll get around to it one of these days...

@Korash: Not sure what you mean about 'under the hills'. Do you mean the rivers layer seems to be under the hills?