The Orchid Throne

June 3, 2019
Kennedy’s romantic fantasy trilogy launch meanders through pleasant territory, but never really gets off the ground. Emotionally reserved Queen Euthalia brilliantly maneuvers politically to guard Calanthe, her untouched magical island. However, Euthalia’s devious plans to avoid marriage to a destructive emperor, Anure, are threatened by the rebellious, cynical “Slave King” Conrí, heir to a decimated kingdom, and his companions, vengeful Sondra and prophecy-wielding wizard Ambrose. While grim, self-hating Conrí conquers his way toward the fulfillment of Ambrose’s prophecy, Euthalia’s long-term machinations are endangered. Once Euthalia and Conrí meet, they must learn to trust each other despite conflicting goals. The plot plateaus early and does not gain impetus except when Euthalia and Conrí meet at last and must argue the merits of their differing plans to overcome Anure. A few plot threads are left dangling; it’s telegraphed that the sequel will feature larger conflicts and hopefully more interaction between Euthalia and Conrí. Appealing characters will win readers over enough to make the second book worth anticipating. Agent: Sarah Younger, Nancy Yost Literary.

September 27, 2019

Conrí is a former prince who spent his life toiling in the mines for the cruel emperor, Anure. Now he's been named the Slave King after leading his fellow captives into rebellion and overtaking Anure's vassal cities. He needs only the fabled Abiding Ring to defeat Anure for good. Euthalia is queen of the lush island kingdom of Calanthe, a land of immense beauty and treacherous court intrigue. Since taking the throne, Lia has used her wits and the magical Abiding Ring to protect her kingdom while keeping Anure, her betrothed, at bay. When Con and Lia finally meet, a third of the way through the novel, they find their reputations precede them. Con is hotheaded and bent on bloodthirsty revenge, while Euthalia is cool and calculating. Despite their mutual animosity, they can't shake the flare of attraction and mutual respect as they come to understand they are both working toward the same purpose. VERDICT Game of Thrones fans who appreciate romance along with their plotting and skullduggery will enjoy the rich world-building in this new fantasy series from the award-winning Kennedy ("The Twelve Kingdoms" and "The Uncharted Realms" series).--Kathryn Howe, Saint John Free P.L., NB

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