What’s the reward for a job well done? A harder job. Kirin sails monster-infested seas to a magical island from which he will fetch back his royal brother’s bride, the beautiful and talented Princess Callia. But kingly marriages bring king-sized trouble, especially from those not invited. Hostile nations and deadly assassins stand in his way, and murderous magic isn’t the worst danger he’ll face. For in that far-off realm Kirin will meet an opponent that can’t be fought with blade or strength, or even by his own deadly powers.
Once again, the world building's excellent. Dalbai, the nation that's soon to be allied with Silbar, is a relatively small nation, but it's clearly a sophisticated place.
The continuing characters have developed new depths and abilities, and we get some lovely new ones.
I simply love Callia, the intended bride of Prince Terrell. So often the Royal Bride is a sacrificial maiden with no thought for her own needs. Not this one--though I assume she's technically a maiden, being a royal bride and all. But this is no pale and timid damsel. She's got a wicked sense of humor. She's perfectly fine with the idea of producing heirs, and wants several.
If there's any criticism, it's that every now and then someone who hasn't had a point of view section in awhile gets one, and I'm confused. That may be just me.
I'll keep this short, because who reads long reviews? Besides, I'm pretty sure I couldn't pass an essay question on the plot twists, attempted assassinations, and intrigue that go on. It's both fun and thoughtful. Read it!
Fantasy with the protagonist having a powerful shadow in him that defeats magic. He is known as the left-hand of the prince and is sent to get a woman for a political marriage. He can use some psi to communicate with the prince, and he has a secret past that he and the prince keep to avoid being killed.
A powerful wizard keeps trying to kill him and the future bride. The book ends as they are getting ready for the trip home. I will get the sequel.