"Fantastic Fantasy"
Long ago two empires arose with one following the light and
the other embracing the dark. Eventually they warred with
wizards fighting mages. The outcome was civilization was
destroyed. Gradually mankind rebuilt much of what was lost,
but failed to understand the real lesson of the past. For almost four decades, the Empress Ouriana has ruled the
island kingdom of Phaorax while turning her neighbors into
slave states. Her mightiest weapon is the Furiadhim,
warrior priests dedicated to the dark powers, but subject
to the will of the Empress. Ouriana's sister gives birth to a daughter that many
believe is the child of prophecy that says someone with the
empress' blood will defeat her. Wizards and men willingly
die to insure the princess will survive. Currently she
lives in the home of King Ristat of Sturra under a false
name. Nineteen years have passed since her birth and war is
everywhere. The wizard Sinderian feels the time is near to
fullfill the prophecy, but she must find and protect the
princess from her aunt's minion whose mission is to kill
her. Sword and sorcery fans and followers of Tolkien and Brooks
are going to love THE HIDDEN STARS. The princess has no
idea of her heritage, who she is, and what is expected of
her as part of hiding her was to keep even her from knowing
until the time was right. Her naive innocence is a perfect
counterpoint to battle scarred Sinderian who has seen
sacrifice for the cause. Madeline Howard's debut tale us a
terrific high fantasy (what do you expect with that last
name -- a stooges' tale?) that readers will enjoy and look
forward to the next novel. Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted September 24, 2004
Reviewed by PNR Group Member
Posted January 24, 2007
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