The book was a most exciting read, filled with all the action and intrigue of a true historical adventure novel, augmented with a sense of wonder from its 'other world' setting. A most interesting mix that encouraged me to race through the pages to see what would happen next. It is a desperate time in the Kingdom of Valdir.
War threatens the frontiers.
Assassins stalk the palace while scheming nobles whisper sweet words in the ears of a weak king. Duke Riall, exiled and disgraced, holds the fate of a kingdom in his hands. In Valdir's darkest hour, Riall returns with an army at his back. The Tourney Fields at Valdir Waraff sighed, swishing his light broadsword. For just a moment, it was fifty years ago and he was a young man facing a series of challengers to gain the rank of Queen's Champion, then First Advisor and commander of the army, seeing again his father's obvious pride and the respectful envy of other young men .