A Conspiracy of Kings

Starred review from February 15, 2010
The fourth installment in Turner's saga is another absorbing political drama, this time focusing on Sophos, reluctant heir to the Sounis throne. Readers will remember him as Useless the Younger in The Thief
, when he was more interested in poetry than power. As the king's only heir, however, he had no choice but to prepare for the monarchy until, in the opening pages of this volume, he is kidnapped and sold into slavery. He narrates the story of his abduction to an undisclosed “you,” whose identity close readers of the series may guess. Given the complexity of Turner's plot, readers should reread the first three books before beginning this one, which derives its power from the intricate construction of Turner's imagined world, a realm in which her founding mythology is as impressive as her descriptions of the land itself. Sophos's choice—live anonymously in servitude or accept a role he doesn't want—drives the story as his allies approach a showdown with the enemy Medes. Strong evidence emerges that the story doesn't end here, and fans will savor this while they wait for more. Ages 10–up.

Jeff Woodman expertly ushers listeners into the fourth audio he's narrated about Attolia, a classical-based fantasy world. Woodman's glib reading of details and his facility with language patterns establish a strong sense of place that welcomes new and returning listeners. Woodman's precise delivery and emphasis on allusions match the bookish personality of the first-person narrator, Sophos, the prince of Sounis, who is bent on reading poetry rather than acquiring the political savvy needed to lead a country. When the security of his home is breached, Woodman conveys the complexity of Sophos's character. He must draw on his intellect to surmount his uncertainty and muster the strength to face life as a slave, soldier, and finally a king. S.W. (c) AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine