The Heir of Night: The Wall of Night, Book 1

New Zealand poet and novelist Lowe (Thornspell) turns in a mostly standard fantasy tale of awkward adolescents who struggle with their destined roles to save an embattled race from its ancient enemy. Malian is forced to navigate between the stern blood oath of the Derai and the burden of being the prophesied One-to-Come who will unite the separate Houses. Escaping the demonic assassins of the Darkswarm, she travels across the Derai's adopted world of Haarth seeking the lost artifacts of a legendary hero. Joining her are another exile and several Haarth natives with considerable powers. Lowe clearly portrays Malian's difficulties in leaving home and facing up to a vital if unwanted birthright, adding depth with descriptions of the stoic and proud Derai warrior culture. Though marketed to adults, this four-book series will appeal more to older teens. (Oct.)