Implementing custom persistence queries in Grails

By default GORM injects whole set of dynamic finders into domain entities. However what should one do if he needs to implement more complex queries that require use of Criteria Builder or HQL?

GORM and getting rid of the DAO(Repository) layer

Like many other new web application frameworks (e.g Rails, Spring Roo) Grails with its GORM has taken the approach that separate DAO or Repository layer is removed. Is this a bad thing or is it just a change in implementation that doesn’t affect conceptual design?

Grails initial experience

Following are some notes based on initial Grails experience in a 1 month greenfield web application project.