A Quest of Heroes

In this action-packed first book in the epic fantasy Sorcerer's Ring series (which is currently 14 books strong), Rice introduces readers to 14-year-old Thorgrin "Thor" McLeod, whose dream is to join the Silver Legion, the elite knights who serve the king. Though initially rejected for his youth and inexperience, a chance meeting with the king's Druid, Argon, prompts Thor to leave home and try again. Against all odds, he is allowed to join the Legion as a squire-in-training. Thor quickly proves himself time and again, earning honors, recognition, and even the eye of Princess Gwendolyn. Simultaneously, he discovers a mysterious magical ability building within him. As Thor struggles to tap into his potential and prove himself as a member of the Legion, he becomes embroiled in political intrigue and drama. While Rice's writing is solid and the premise intriguing, there's an overwhelming amount of wish fulfillment packed into this initial installment, with Thor's successes and rewards piling up at an unbelievable rate in an impossibly short time. The predictable plot is packed full of fantasy clich%C3%A9s, the pacing is rushed, and character development is hasty. Ages 12%E2%80%93up.