“Nor Iron Bars a Cage: Part of the Legends of Byntar
Book two of the Ascendancy Trilogy
By Caprice Hokstad
Vici Publishing
ISBN#: 978-0615163604 (Paperback)
ISBN#: B0011UBWIW (Kindle ASIN (Amazon eBook version)
Author Caprice Hokstad's easy-to-read style ushers readers into the medieval-like world of Byntar where twin suns shine by day and twin moons guard the sky by night. Characters are not only believable, but the caste system in which they live adds interesting twists to the plot. kee, a young slave owned by Duke Vahn Rebono lives a secret life as the Duke's wife during stolen private moments and nights in his chamber. Staff and others think little of her providing this service for their master since the Duke's self-serving wife left him and stole their only child, a son, before going into hiding. In public, kee's role as optimess presents her with responsibilities of overseeing day-to-day operations at Robono Keep, but the title also gives her the honor of sitting at the Duke's feet regularly, offering the blessing over his cup and tasting his drink before he partakes.
Duke Vahn is the twin of the man currently reigning as king; the result of a father's unfair decision but a consequence Vahn accepts with dutiful compliance and proper respect. However, his undeserving brother repays his kindness with suspicion and insolence which carries beyond their personal relationship to threaten peace and safety within the land.
Hokstad's Byntar is believable, her characters three-dimensional and complex, and her plot well-defined plot and rife with conflict, a touch of mystery and an undercurrent of romance. This is one of the best fantasies of read by a new author, and as the second book of a trilogy, Nor Iron Bars a Cage stands very well on its own. This well-crafted fantasy will enchant both casual readers and hardcore fantasy enthusiasts. In my opinion it's a must have for any fantasy collection.
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