January 1, 2003
The sequel to " Dragon Bones" (2002) opens with Tisala, a young noblewoman, escaping from the secret torture chambers of the corrupt King Jakoven. Knowing that she will endanger anyone with whom she seeks refuge, she flies to a powerful friend, Ward of Hurog. She brings news that Jakoven intends to attack Ward's cousin, and Ward knows he must act. When the king's soldiers arrive at Hurog, Ward goes with them willingly, hoping to stave off an attack on his land and his cousin. His faithful mage, Oreg, who happens to be a dragon, follows at a distance, hoping to save Ward. To learn the power behind the mystical stone Farsonsbane, Jakoven, who has obtained it, has Ward tortured and discovers that Ward's blood activates the stone. When Ward escapes, Jakoven seeks a half-brother of Ward's to use his blood instead. Thereafter the stakes are raised dramatically when Ward and his friends rescue the king's imprisoned brother, Kellen, who intends to overthrow his evil sibling. A thrilling adventure for fantasy lovers.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2003, American Library Association.)