The False Prince

 
 

The story is set in the kingdom of Carthya where the royal family has been murdered, the crown Prince's ship was attacked by pirates and since then has been missing. A new king is to be crowned who hopefully can help prevent a war from occurring with a neighboring kingdom. The story begins with Sage fleeing from a man who's meat he has stolen.  Sage tries to find shelter within  the orphanage he lives and unknowingly, he trips and falls into a trap where he is purchased by a wealthy nobleman named Conner.  Sage awakens to find himself riding in a carriage traveling toward Conner's mansion.  Apparently, Conner has enlisted a few other boys from an orphanage each with differing skills. Roden appears to have brute strength, Tobias is knowledgeable, and Sage is the mysterious one of the bunch.   The focus of the story becomes one in which all three boys are groomed and trained in reading, etiquette, horseback riding, sword fighting, etc. in order for one of them to be selected to impersonate the prince.   Yet, there can only be one that will be selected and time is running out.  I like how the story is told in Sage's point of view but we get to see the development of the other boys skills as well. This sets up some nice battles and intrigue as each boy tries to win Conner's favor. I would love to say so much more about this book but If I did it would spoil so much of the story.  Suffice to say,  I thoroughly loved this story, not only is it beautifully written but there are so many lovely twists and turns.  It's filled with characters that engage you and a plot that just grabs a hold of ya.  I also really loved Sage for his willful, playful personality and how he is so cunning.  Next to him, Mott would be my next favorite.  Mott seems to be most loyal and trustworthy as well as showing such kindness toward Sage.  I hope he will play a role in book 2.  Overall, a five out of five story for me.  My copy was borrowed from the library, but I'm putting this one on  my to purchase list.  Until then, I'm going to check it out and re-read it again, it really is that good.