The Night Voice

After putting their heroes through leagues of travel and many betrayals, magical traps, and desperate rounds of dangerous diplomacy, the Hendees bring their third Noble Dead subseries (and 14th book in the overall saga) to a violent, action-packed conclusion. The mixed party of sages, mages, intelligent wolves, and well-meaning undead led by dhampir Magiere has just two powerful elemental artifacts left to hide before they can finally go home to live in peace. Unfortunately, an undead horde is gathering in the desert wastes to pave the way for the return of a great ancient evil. At the urging of their companion Ghassan, the adventurers decide they must reunite the five artifacts and head to the desert. They have no idea that Ghassan has been possessed by a 1,000-year-old spirit who once served the evil entity and longs for its return. The Hendees have created a complex, multi-strand plot ripe with conflicts, both internal and external. Though new readers may have trouble keeping track of everyone, longtime fans will enjoy seeing their heroes finally triumph. Agent: John Silbersack, Trident Media Group. (Jan.)