This was a not bad fantasy book that takes a lot of familiar themes while attempting to start a series. I liked how the story had some twists, but much of the plot seemed to be just to serve the big twist at the end. I understand that is what the plot is for, but it felt less natural and more artificial to me.
Young people choose a group to be associated with. One is special, and makes a surprising choice. They gather to choose the best among themselves to lead, competing in games and events. Our hero is misunderstood, loves to read, and is a social misfit.
Despite all this stuff that we’ve read in plenty of other books, the author did manage to keep me interested throughout. I could see a lot of events coming, but I still wanted to stick around and see if I was right.
The last few chapters of the book pass in a rush as the author hurriedly moves characters into position for the next book. I’m not sure I’ll be around to read it though.
Next I will be reading A Drop of Corruption by Robert Jackson Bennett.
