Michele L. (mlopes12613) - , reviewed on 7/27/2009 + 17 more book reviews

Treachery has destroyed the Clan Leonne and its Tyr'agar, hereditary ruler of the Dominion. Only one seemingly insignificant male member is briefly overlooked: Valedan, son of a concubine hostage in the neighboring Empire.

Unfortunately for the usurpers, in the Dominion there is a magic Sword with a stubborn and persistent loyalty to the legitimate Tyr'agar. The newly-installed ruler of the Dominion strives to kill Valedan in order to strengthen his own position.

Meanwhile, the God-Born kings of the Empire, realizing that they hold a potentially valuable ally, pledge to protect and support Valedan; the Demon Lords of the Shining Court, for their own purposes, support the Dominion.

As the annual King's Challenge is about to begin, Valedan enters the contest to prove he is no longer an unseasoned boy, but worthy to rule the Clans and the Dominion. The threats against Valedan and those charged to protect him escalate, and it seems unlikely that he will live long enough to finish the tests of martial arts. Ultimately he excels, but voluntarily forfeits his chance at the winner's title in order to help a fallen enemy.

This book is a sequel to The Broken Crown.

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details