In this conclusion to the Ascendance trilogy, the impulsive Jaron, former orphan thief and now King of Carthya, is facing down multiple enemies and his country's invasion with his usual aplomb. There is always a trick up this royal's sleeve, though setbacks involving those closest to him d a surprise loss most push him to give up. (Almost is the operative word.) Battles, close shaves, daring escapes, and double crosses will thrill fans who have come to expect this kind of nonstop action. There is a sobering death toll, but the emphasis is not on blood and guts. Despite there being a war on, Jaron always keeps his focus on his true enemy, the King of Avenia, and not on common foot soldiers. Despite all the adventures, there is little doubt that the story will culminate in a happily-ever-after outcome, even if the subplot involving his intended princess veers away from the expected conclusion. It's the journey to a gallows scene at owes more than a little to Pirates of the Caribbean at's the draw. Fans won't be disappointed.

As the trilogy (The False Prince; The Runaway King) draws to its close, King Jaron finds his country, Carthya, at war. Overmatched, he is forced to outfox his enemies, devising plans and schemes for his cadre of allies. Theres enough adventure, mystery, and romance in this concluding volume to please a variety of genre readers.