The second installment of Anderson and Sebanc's Legacy of the Stone Harp saga (after 2009's The Stoneholding
) continues the formulaice but entertaining story of young bard Kalaquinn Wright. With a tyrannical usurper sitting on the throne and a darkness spreading across the land, the idyllic Harmonic Age seems to be coming to a close—unless Kal and a small band of misfits can locate the missing heir to Ardiel's ancient throne and rekindle “the Sacred Fire” by finding the Talamadh, a magical harp whose power binds the realm of Arvon together in peace and harmony. The story doesn't offer anything unique, but the authors' stylish and poetic narrative, coupled with a cast of endearing—albeit two-dimensional—characters make this a real page-turner that epic fantasy fans will enjoy. (June)
