Dragonwitch

Stengl's characteristic humor, inventiveness, and verve catalyze a slight plot in the fifth installment of the Tales of Goldstone Wood (after Starflower). Alistair, the red-headed heir of Earl Ferox of Gaheris, is contemplating a loveless marriage and wrestling with prophetic nightmares. He'd like to be a hero through deeds of derring-do, but his mother wants him to play politics and become king. He sees his intended, Lady Leta, as insipid because he can't understand having a passion for books and ideas. It's the stuff of second-rate romance, but there are larger issues brewing. Ancient legends are stirring. A dangerous gate is forming between the worlds of faeries and mortals. Alistair's dreams portend a threat big enough for any hero, with room for a cranky misshapen librarian, an urchin, and a certain blithe cat-man. The story stands alone, though favorite characters from the earlier books have cameos large and small. New readers will find much to charm them, and fans will enjoy the epic yet quirky adventure they have come to anticipate. Agent: Rachel Kent, Books & Such Literary Agency. (July)