ISBN: 0-553-58342-5 Order from: Amazon.com
Reviewed by David on August 09, 2003
Genre: Fantasy (Coming of Age, Magic, Sword and Sorcery, Politics, Hidden Heir)
Synopsis: For centuries, the country of Skala had female rulers, guided by a prophecy. However, the last queen was a mad, homocidal tyrant. Upon her death, a male relative was crowned. There was plenty of grumblings about tradition, so to safeguard his thrown, King Erius has murdered most female royal relatives.
Still guided by the prophecy, a handful of wizards safeguard a female heir by disguising her as a boy.
In this second book of the trilogy, Tobin—destined to become Tamír—knows that she is really a girl. But the realization is not easy, after living for twelve years as a boy. Tobin's ghostly brother and her tragic memories of her mother haunt her, as does the ever-present danger from the Wizard Nyrin and his Harriers. Her uncle, King Erius, would kill her instantly if he finds out that Tobin's female, but as a nephew, love-starved Tobin is treated with affection.
The peril grows, as the entire country suffers from natural and external peril, and Tobin must find a way to claim her crown, without dying in the process or plunging the country into civil war.
Full Review: The book continues to be rather grim. However, as Tobin grows up, her role becomes more active, and there are lighter moments. Tobin also has more control over her own survival, and is growing up quickly and well.
On the whole, this is a more conventional book, but also fuller of choices. Tobin continues to be interesting, and her difficult life now gains difficult choices.
In general, the book is exciting, with moderate view-hopping and effective pacing. One looks forward to the series' conclusion.
Universe: Skala
Overall: 6; Plot: 5.5; Characters: 6; Style: 5.5; World-building: 6; Originality: 6;
Copyright date 2003, Bantam Books (Spectra), July 2003, Mass-market paperback
ISBN: 0-553-58342-5 Order from: Amazon.com