Seven Towers by Patricia Wrede

Product Details

Synopsis

They are seven players in a game of deadly magic— Eltiron, Prince of Sevarin; Crystalorn, Princess of Barinash; Ranlyn, the desert rider; Jermain, the outlaw; Vandaris, the soldier; Carachel, the Wizard-King; and Amberglas, the sorceress. Each of them has a secret, and each fights his or her part in the thrilling battle that has put seven kingdoms on the very edge of destruction. Filled with wit, swordplay, humor, and intrigue, this early novel is one of Patricia C. Wrede's best.

Children's Literature

When Jermain falls from his horse in Barinash, he draws Lady Amberglas into a series of courtly events designed to save the region from the advancing marauders of the Hoven-Thalar. Amberglas, renown as the Lady of the Tower, helps Jermain to recuperate and hears the story of his exile from King Marreth in Sevairn. Jermain was an adviser to the king until most recently when Terrel Lassond stepped in and took over, accusing Jermain of treason. It is an accusation that seems supported by Prince Eltiron, a young man whom Jermain considers to be his friend. But before she can help Jermain more, Amberglas is called to accompany young Crystalorn, the Princess of Barinash, as she is to be married to Prince Eltiron, ending a long standing animosity between Sevairn and Barinash. Meanwhile Jermain is called into the service of the Wizard king Carachel, who is mounting an army to stave off the Hoven-Thalar. Throughout this tale of politics and magic, Lady Amberglas is an unlikely centerpiece, a fascinating sorceress who generally confuses those around her. However she is well adept at using opportunity to carefully perceive the events and the intentions of any situation. Having lived in one of the Seven Towers, she knows of their history and is able to draw on it when the time is right. Fantasy fans will find a story almost as convoluted as the Lady's speeches and yet compelling nonetheless. Sorting through the magic, the lies, and the advancing threat is no easy task for Amberglas or casual readers. This is a fantasy for fantasy fans. Reviewer: Janis Flint-Ferguson

Biography

Patricia C. Wrede lives in Edina, Minnesota.