Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
In Shinn's intrigue-filled third Twelve Houses fantasy (after The Thirteenth House and Mystic and Rider), Justin, one of the elite King's Riders who serve King Baryn of Gillengaria, finds plenty to be concerned about after going undercover as a stableman to learn about threats to Baryn's rule. Noblewoman Coralinda Gisseltess, head of the Lumanen Convent of the Daughters of the Pale Mother (a moon goddess), has begun her own campaign against mystics, preaching that their magic is an abomination to the goddess. Then Justin meets Ellynor Alowa of Lirren, a young novice from the convent, and loses his heart to her. Things get complicated when Ellynor is denounced as a mystic because of her healing abilities. Rescuing Ellynor from being burned at the stake won't be easy, but if Justin succeeds, he'll then have to deal with the taboo against Lirren women marrying outside their clans. Once again Shinn expertly mixes romance with traditional fantasy for a satisfying read. (Oct.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
(c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
Review by Library Journal Review
As a member of the King's Riders, Justin must watch over the sinister Lumanen Convent, where the Daughters of the Pale Mother teach her followers that those who wield magic are evil creatures to be destroyed. When he falls in love with Ellynor, one of the convent's novices, Justin must choose between his duty to his King and the safety of the woman he loves. The latest novel in Shinn's "Twelve Houses" (Mystic and Rider; The Thirteenth House) series elaborates on the conflict between faith and magic, combining storytelling expertise with a richly detailed fantasy world. Recommended for most libraries and particularly those where the author has a following. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
