Rowankind

In the gripping final Rowankind installment (following 2017’s Silverwolf), set in an alternate 1802 England beset by magic, witch Rossalinde and her new husband, wolf shape-shifter Corwen, are tasked by the Fae to convince King George III to end the persecution of magical beings and abolish the tyrannical Mysterium. While Ross and Corwen attempt to meet with the king, they must also deal with other supernatural issues, including imprisoned witches, murderous pirates, rogue trolls, and Corwen’s own brother, who risks going feral in his wolf form. Moreover, their old enemy Walsingham is at large and out for vengeance. With the Fae deadline for action swiftly approaching, Ross and Corwen must do everything in their power to sway Parliament’s minds regarding magic, or else ruin will fall upon the land. Bedford takes a leisurely, semiepisodic approach to tying off her outstanding plot threads; despite the sensation of a ticking clock in the background, her heroes still find time for romance, side quests, and proper manners. Series fans will be glad to see old friends and antagonists, and will find this a strong and satisfying wrap-up of the series. Agent: Donald Maass, Donald Maass Literary. (Dec.)