In this light, fizzy brew of a quest fantasy from Rabe (The Finest Challenge
), a thieving but charming young gnome, Fenzighan "Fenzig" Wiznagrik, is caught red-handed in King Erlgrane's treasure trove. To avoid punishment, he agrees to steal three precious emeralds from Erlgrane's rival, Duke Rehmir of K'Nosha—the gnome's assignment made all the more dangerous by a wizard's spell that will kill him should he not return with the jewels in two weeks. En route to the duke's castle, Fenzig meets a traveling performer and gifted thief who goes by the name of Carmen the Magnificent. But Carmen turns out to be more than meets the eye, and the two thieves join forces to foil Erlgrane's devious plans to usurp Rehmir's fortune. Readers of all ages will find simple pleasures in this traditional hobbit-inspired fantasy. (Mar.)
