"Excellent epic fantasy"
In the kingdom of Moren, the capital city of Morenia is
almost burnt to the ground by a fire whose origins are
shrouded in mystery. King Hal, once thought daft by his
own people, wants to rebuild the city but his coffers are
practically bare. The people who helped put the fire out
are suffering and dying from a plague known as firelung. When the disease spreads to other castes and classes, Hal
borrows money from the church at usury rates. To pay the
loan off on time, Hal accedes to his councilors' wishes
that he marry. He courts Princess Berylina of Liantine and
begs Rani Trader to accompany him to negotiate on his
behalf. She agrees even though she wants Hal to commit to
rebuilding the Glasswright's Guild that his father
dismantled. When they arrive in Liantine, their well
thought out plans fall apart. Rani negotiates harder than
she has ever done before to save her kingdom and Hal's
throne. This is the third Rani Trader book and it is the best book
in the series. The protagonist has grown into a mature
woman who realizes there is no such thing as instant
gratification. Her friendship with the king is based on
loyalty, honor and trust even when she doesn't agree with
him. The bond is so strong no outsider can break it. The
king's concern for his people and the sacrifices he is
willing to make to alleviate their suffering is a beautiful
thing to behold. Mindy j. Klasky has written a juicy epic
fantasy that will appeal to fans of Mercedes Lackey. Harriet Klausner
Reviewed by PNR Group Member
Posted May 10, 2002
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