A Sword Named Truth

In this ambitious, slow-burning series opener, tied to and heavily dependent on the Inda series, the influential young leaders of a world still recovering from its most recent conflicts form a loose-knit alliance in anticipation of renewed trouble. Among the characters are Atan, the reluctant queen of a land which was frozen in time for a century; Jilo, who’s unexpectedly responsible for his country after its fearsome dictator suddenly vanishes; Senrid, the new ruler of a kingdom that prizes military strength; and Hibern, a student mage whose travels take her across the world. With the forces of the fearsome Norsunder stirring and war on the horizon, this generation comes together over the course of several years, dealing with problems both domestic and foreign, until their enemies finally strike. This installment is set centuries after the events of the Inda series, but it picks up ongoing threads from numerous precursors, and much of the backstory, worldbuilding, and character development rely on these earlier installments, making it a daunting, occasionally confusing experience for new readers. The leisurely pace, sprawling cast, and wide-ranging scope will delight existing fans and those seeking an immersive experience, but many of the finer details risk being lost along the way. (June)