Wyvernhail

December 1, 2007
Gr 7 Up-This final volume in the series tidies up loose ends after Oliza's abdication in "Wolfcry" (Delacorte, 2006) with Salem Cobriana set to take the serpiente throne. Treachery, however, forces Oliza to become ruler after all. Powerful cobra-falcon Hai, the narrator, is having waking dreams predicting disaster under Oliza. She fears her hidden plans to claim the throne will be perceived as betrayal, and that she will lose those closest to her only after fostering their deep affection and devotion. Knowledge of other books in the series is needed to understand the highly complex history of and power struggle between avian and serpiente shape-shifters. The family tree in the front helps to keep track of the large cast of characters. The invented language of the shape-shifters enriches their well-imagined world, in which some can communicate telepathically. Themes include illusion and reality, self-sacrifice, one's sense of duty, and love. Hai transforms from recluse to leader, gradually mastering her power and inner conflict. Secondary characters are kept distant, were explored in other volumes, or remain static. Frequent switching in and out of a dream-state is initially confusing; however, revelation, justice, and reconciliation (for some) ultimately flow together seamlessly. The pacing is even and holds tension throughout, maintaining a sense of impending disaster. The conclusion, filled with betrayal, tenderness, and peace for diverse peoples, will satisfy, despite ending a little too neatly. A must for libraries collecting this series."Amy J. Chow, New York Public Library"

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