My 1st included a Ratling Rogue. Weak at first, but very fast and impressive later on. I was happy with him.
My 1st Party...
F Wiskah Warr-->Barb-->Rang-->Valk
M Ratling Rogue-->Ninja(-->Assassin, but I messed up the "Job" and killed the wrong "Rat")
M Human Priest-->Paladin(kept him there)
M Pixie Wizard-->Bard-->Warlock(Bard is pretty much a waste)
F Elf Wizard-->Warlock(A real killin' machine!!)
M Lizzord Warr-->Barb-->Samurai(impressive with two swords!)
I messed up some of the ascensions, but the starting party is very solid. I think the only thing I'd change there is ditch the Pixie for another Elf. They ROCK as Warlocks!
The only other advice I'd offer now is MAKE SURE you have 80+ attribute points for each of your Char's. It takes a long time to recreat a new char. with that total, but it's definitely worth it.
I've got a new, but similar party with different Races that are cleaning out the Gael Serran right now, but I want to start a new group with all Elves. 2 Warr's 2 Wiz's 2 Priest's. How's that sound?
+Dr.Pick