Trial by Treason

September 10, 2018
Duncan’s second Enchanter General standalone fantasy mystery (after Ironfoot) provides another complex conspiracy for Sage Durwin of Helmdon, a 12th-century Saxon magician, to unravel. In 1166, the skilled 22-year-old, who wears an iron boot on his deformed foot, is commissioned by King Henry II of England to accompany stuffy young Norman knight Sir Neil d’Airelle and his squire, Piers, to Lincoln Castle on a mission concerning high treason. In Lincoln, Durwin and spunky magical adept Eadig learn that castle Lord Richard de la Haye is incapacitated by a curse. Neil and Piers are taken prisoner by Richard’s sage, Quentin, and Lincoln’s four healers and sages have been replaced with traitorous Normans—allowing the conspirators to perform the five-person pentacle magic required to summon Satan. Durwin and Eadig must stop the summoning and prevent demon-possessed Neil and Piers from murdering the king. This brisk, breezy tale is diminished by occasional repetition and a too-convenient ending. Nevertheless, Durwin’s humor and confidence—and his love at first sight with the large and buxom Lorvise, a remarkably talented magician—are entertaining. Readers who enjoy a medieval setting and intricate descriptions of deciphering magical spells will be immersed in Duncan’s enchanted world. Agent: Richard Curtis, Richard Curtis Assoc.

September 15, 2018

In 1166, even a king can use all the help he can get. Enter Durwin of Pipewell, a young but gifted sage who is tasked with protecting King Henry by chanting protective spells. When the forces of true evil conspire to usurp the throne and assassinate Henry with black magic, Durwin and his trusty assistant Eadig are pressed into service to combat ethereally and mystically the combined forces of five wizards. Compelled to design an original incantation, Durwin composes an untried chant that he hopes will help defend the king. But it will also kill, which means he could be tried for murder. VERDICT In this sequel to Ironfoot, Duncan (The Seventh Sword, "King's Blades" series) has written a well-paced, fresh historical fantasy that fans of his other work will welcome. Those who enjoy a little sorcery with their history will not be disappointed.--Russell Miller, formerly with Prescott P.L., AZ

Copyright 2018 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.