-- Order the book!! PAPERBACK
Reviewed by Robert Thompson 2/15/98
I just happened to run across this one in the public library the other day. I was not familiar with David Feintuch previously, but he is the author of THE SEAFORT SAGA- Midshipmans Hope, Challengers Hope, Prisoners Hope, Fishermans Hope, and Voices of Hope.
Fifteen year old Prince Rodrigo is the heir to the Throne of Caledon- His mother, Queen Elena, dies before Roddy is ready to assume rulership. His Uncle Mar appoints himself Regent, and begins his campaign to usurp all power, no matter who suffers. After Roddy's youngest brother Pytor is taken hostage by Mar, Roddy, his best friend Rustin and younger brother Elryc escape and start trying to build support for Roddy's coronation.
Roddy is kind of a brat- Typical of a feudal society royal scion. Thinks non-nobles are scum, believes everyone should cater to his whims, take care of his every need. Not the way to endear himself to those on the run with him. Roddy's friend Rustin is two years older and is wise, brave, kind and all in all, just the opposite of Roddy. Why they are friends is really a mystery to me, even given that nobles tend to flock together, and especially when there are few nobles among many "churls".
There is a bit of magic in Roddy's world- The Nobles of the land all have some minor "talent" or ability to manifest different phenomena. Most of the talents are minor, nothing earth-shaking and many of them are useless. The Talent in Roddy's family is kind of forseeing- although not in the usual sense, and communicating with ancestors who have passed beyond.
As the story progresses, Roddy begins to realize what a weasel he is, and with Rustin's tutelage, starts trying to do better. Even by the end of the book, he still has not completely conquered himself, but he does become pretty good at politics and even a pretty tough warrior.
I enjoyed this book quite a bit- Feintuch does have a fine touch with words. The story moves along quite well, and while there are no real suprises, it remains interesting. One thing kind of bugged me about the story though; There is a recurring theme of homosexuality. It isn't "in your face", and while it does kind of explain a couple of things, it isn't really necessary. I guess if you watch ELLEN on TV, it won't bother you. I didn't care for it, but the story is good enough that I'll overlook it.
Nothing indicating a sequel or series was mentioned in or on the book, but the ending was not really an ending, so I assume (and hope) that there will be a continuation. I'll be looking forward to reading it.