The Golden Sword by Fiona Patton

VOYA

In her fourth novel set in the magical realm of Branion, Patton tells the story of Camden DeKathrine, destined to be a Sword Knight for the Living Flame. As the story opens, twenty-year-old Cam is doing his best to shirk his duties, instead spending time in disreputable taverns, drinking to forget his unhappiness. For Cam revels not in the power of the Flame but of the Wind, which seems to have chosen him as its vessel. In flashbacks, Cam's years under the tutelage of his uncle are revealed. Celestus tries to tap into the powers of four young people to harness the Aspects of Oak, Wind, Flame, and Sea to eclipse the power of the Living Flame avatar, an act of heresy. As the story of the past is revealed, Cam is about to be plunged again into conflict that threatens him, his family, and the entire Realm. Without familiarity with earlier Branion books such as The Painter Knight (DAW, 1998) or The Granite Shield (1999/VOYA October 1999), the density of the opening chapters will be daunting for all but the most dedicated fantasy readers. Lists of names and briefings on the history, religion, and politics of this world are heavy going until the plot flashes back to Cam' s earlier years. Patton spends hundreds of pages building background to an all-too-quick conclusion. Casual acceptance of drinking, sex, and use of narcotic potions to enhance visions make this tale of an early Britain-like world more suited for older teens who are interested in exploring metaphysical and religious values. VOYA CODES:3Q 3P S A/YA (Readable without serious defects;Will appeal with pushing;Senior High, defined as grades 10 to 12;Adult and Young Adult). 2001, DAW, 416p, $6.99 pb. Ages 15 to Adult.Reviewer:Mary Ann Darby—VOYA, December 2001 (Vol. 24, No. 5)

KLIATT

In a world of castles, royalty and sentient Elements, Camden, flighty and moody as his beloved Wind, is inextricably tied to all three. From his birth, the Wind has been with him, teasing his golden hair and taking his spirit off to fly among the meadows and chimney pots of Branion. When Cam's father dies, Cam's uncle Celestus offers him fostership at his castle, Tavenstock. There, Cam finds companionship in Celestus' daughters Danielle, Quin and Lisha, who are also Chosen of the Aspects. Together, they are secretly instructed by Celestus and a retired priest on how to give themselves over to their Aspects to form a Circle of ever-increasing power. Gradually, Cam becomes aware of the ulterior motive behind the secret training: Celestus plans to try the theory of the Triarchy Heresy, the idea that everyone is entitled to the full strength of the Elements they contain. While the other youngsters readily embrace the intensive training and dogma, Cam only wishes to be free to soar with the Wind, far from the demands of divided loyalties. For teens feeling isolated and dreaming of escape, there is much to identify with here. Patton's writing has become more active and easier to follow, so though much of the story is told in flashbacks, it has an easy flow. There is still an extensive cast of characters, but the storyline focuses more deeply on a few, building to a well-thought-out climax and Afterword. The created world history is brought in just enough to give an established sense without becoming pedantic, and gives motivation and body to the story and people. The best of the series so far. (Branion series) Category: Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror. KLIATT Codes: JSA—Recommended forjunior and senior high school students, advanced students, and adults. 2001, DAW, 416p., Ages 13 to adult. Reviewer: Liz LaValley; Mattapoisett, MA

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