* “Mahy’s reputation for writing compelling fantasy is evident in this intricately woven tale . . . once begun, there may be no stopping until the reader has closed the book with a satisfied sigh.”—Library Media Connection, starred review
Description
Where will your destiny lead you?
For as long as he can remember, Heriot Tarbas has been plagued with fits, headaches, dreams, and nightmares that make him feel as if a part of his very self is being torn away. His visions are only whispered about in his quiet life on the family farm. But when the King of Hoad hears word of his powers and seeks him out to be a member of the royal court, it becomes clear that Heriot has a gift, and a valuable one. While Heriot unwillingly learns to use his mind-reading and other abilities to serve the king as his most trusted advisor, four remarkably different lives—that of a Hero, a Magician, a noble girl, and a Prince—weave their way, for better or for worse, toward his. When their paths finally converge in the midst of political upheaval, hand-to-hand battles, and burgeoning romances, Heriot must decide how he’ll choose to use his magic—and what his destiny will be.
With a complex cast of characters set against a majestic land, award-winning author Margaret Mahy weaves her magic in a fantastical tale exploring the meaning of truth, freedom, and loyalty to one’s greater destiny.
Reviews
“Mahy has created a unique bildungsroman, complex and challenging, yet richly rewarding. This novel should prove deeply satisfying . . . Another excellent work from the masterful storyteller.”—School Library Journal
“[An] epic quest for identity . . . wrapped up in terror, romance, surprise, and suspense” --Horn Book
“A highly successful fantasy. . . . Heriot’s magic owes as much to the logic of dreams and surrealism as it does to the traditions of Tolkien and genre fantasy.” – Publishers Weekly
