Queen Among the Dead

By blending thrilling adventure with ancient Celtic legend, Livingston (the Valiant series) delivers an elevated tale of magic and strife. Gofannon, the chief Druid of the ancient kingdom of Eire, has successfully persuaded the current human Dagda, or king, Ruad Rofhessa, to confiscate all enchanted items in his domain, hoarding the land’s magic for the Druids and royal family. Meanwhile, the Dagda’s youngest daughter, Neve, would rather learn to fight like the legendary queen who led Neve’s people to victory in battle than be a courtly lady like her elder sister, crowned princess Úna. But upon Úna’s untimely death, Neve is forced to take on her duties, which include carrying out the Druids’ orders. After a chance encounter with Ronan, an apprentice Druid turned thief whose livelihood is threatened by the Druids’ greedy pursuits, Neve struggles to shed her royal limitations to fight against the court’s unjust rule. Dense exposition stalls momentum at times, but a fierce and capable heroine, dynamic supporting characters, an original magic system, and myriad intriguing subplots will prove irresistible to fans of mythology-inspired fantasy. Ages 14–up. (Jan.)