Sacrifice

October 15, 2012
A historical fantasy seamlessly intertwines the love stories of Alera and Shaselle, two young but incredibly strong teenage women, and their personal struggles to restore their medieval-esque kingdom, Hytanica, to grace. This final installment in the Legacy trilogy picks up with the citizens of Hytanica recently conquered by their sworn enemies, the Cokyrians but determined to reclaim their nation. Chapters alternate between the fresh voices of Alera and Shaselle, providing readers a view of the struggle from behind the palace walls via Alera and on the city streets through Shaselle. Once Hytanica's queen but now appointed Grand Provost, Alera is challenged with rebuilding Hytanica under Cokyrian rule, which she soon learns includes reconstructing not only buildings, but also the pride of her people. Feisty and more comfortable with horses than suitors, Shaselle scoffs at her role as a lady and insinuates herself into the plans of the Hytanican freedom fighters. Similar in their love of Hytanica, these two women are also linked by painful choices between the love of a man or the glory of their country. Although true to its roots as a Harlequin novel, this tale rises above genre by including thought-provoking elements that examine the role of women, family allegiances and the damaging nature of prejudice. (Fantasy. 13-17)

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