Unlike most middle books of fantasy trilogies, Haydon's dazzling second volume of the second trio of her bestselling Symphony of the Ages series (Rhapsody: Child of Blood
, etc.) inspires and thrills all on its own. The story focuses on the beautiful Rhapsody and her half-dragon husband, Ashe, in what seems to be the calm following the storm of Requiem for the Sun
(2003). Their ward Gwydion comes of age with merry ceremony, their friends Achmed and Grunthor continue to rebuild the kingdom of Ylorc, and Rhapsody's pregnancy progresses as well as can be expected given her child's odd heritage. But others are also coming into power, including Anwyn, a malevolent seer, and Talquist, the depraved emperor of Sorbold. The ominous rumble of their scheming intensifies in a crescendo of fear and tragedy that leaves the reader breathless and not a little teary-eyed. Those who eagerly anticipated this volume will be even more desperate for the next, and if the author's stunning rate of improvement is anything to go by, it will be well worth the wait. Agent, Richard Curtis. (Aug. 1)
Forecast:
Fans eager for more will find some beautifully detailed supporting information for the series on the author's Web site (www.elizabethhaydon.com
). An author tour and marketing in young women's magazines will help expand her base.
