Oliza Shardae Cobriana is heir to Wyvern's Court, home of the avians and serpiente, whose war with each other ended just before Oliza was born. But hatred is slow to die, and not everyone likes the expressive way in which Urban, a serpiente dancer, is courting Oliza—especially not Marus, her reserved avian suitor. And when Urban is found beaten in avian land, Oliza is filled with despair. How can she be expected to lead a unified society if her people still cannot live peacefully together?

Before Oliza can try to mend the rift in Wyvern's Court, she is kidnapped by mercenaries, who take her deep into wolves' territory. As Wyvern princess, all Oliza has ever wanted is to see a future where she can find love and take a mate without inciting another war. The time is now. She owes it to her people—and to herself.

Amelia Atwater-Rhodes's fantasy series follows the world of shapeshifters, where those who shift into snakes and those who shift into birds maintain an uneasy peace under the reign of young Oliza Shardae Cobriana, a young woman who is both snake and bird. In this fourth volume, time has come for Oliza to marry, but the weight of that decision is heavy with uncertainty and guilt. If she chooses a snake, the birds will complain; and if she chooses a bird, the snakes may revolt. She has suitors from both camps, but when a snake is violently attacked by birds, Oliza sees the undercurrents of prejudice and hatred within her own realm. Kidnapped by mercenary lions, she escapes and has to make her way in the forest where she comes into contact with a wolf pack. The pack is led by Velyo who, though he tries to take advantage of Oliza, also shares her wisdom about leadership. She also enters into a relationship with a young wolf hunted by Velyo. In the end, Oliza makes a hard choice, but one she believes will serve her people well. The detail, the uncertainty, and the decisions that Oliza faces make this a compelling story for those who enjoy fantasy. Atwater-Rhodes is a master at integrating the needed details from past volumes without losing momentum in the narrative she is telling. The characters ring true despite the fantasy world of their existence. This novel does deal with sexuality and homosexuality as Oliza comes of age. (Kiesha' ra, vol. 4.). KLIATT Codes: JS--Recommended for junior and senior high school students. 2006, Random House, Delacorte, 192p., $14.95 and $16.99. Ages 12 to 18.

Categories:

• Teen & Young Adult
  
  
  • Science Fiction & Fantasy
    
    
    • Fantasy
      • Contemporary