Elaine Isaak, The Eunuch’s Heir

The Eunuch's Heir

Elaine Isaak

Eos, October 2006, $14.95

ISBN: 0060782552

His father, the late King Kattanan duRhys is a legend for his fair, just and strong rule; some would say a saint. Most of residents of the Kingdom of Lochalyn believe the deceased revered monarch made one mistake, his heir. Knowing he could never live up to his sire's accomplishments, Prince Wolfram spends much of his time partying with women.

That changes when someone tries to assassinate Wolfram, which shakes him out of his hedonistic lifestyle, at the same time his ascension to the throne is challenged by doubts that he is the true offspring of the good King Kattanan. Needing time to regroup while remaining safe, Wolfram flees with his eighteen year old foster sister Princess Melody; he leaves his mother Queen Brianna and the Lord Protector Fionvar duNormand in charge of the monarchy. The two royal travelers reach the mystical Hemijrai, where the Prince falls in love with virginal Priestess Dieshima, while her mentor Priestess Faedara wants the male infidel dead, and his female companion to join them in a sacrificial rebirth that could lead to a flowing of blood in Lochalyn.

The sequel to THE SINGER'S CROWN (Kattanan's tale) is a solid romantic fantasy starring a spoiled prince whose late father gave him everything he wanted as a reaction to the murders of those he loved when he was the heir. Thus, in many ways Wolfram is the more fascinating character than his sire, whose "mission" was established by his uncle's killings. The storyline is filled with action and a sort of comparative analysis between the two nations that are polar opposites in outlook. Still, to fully understand the goings-on, readers should first peruse THE SINGER'S CROWN, as that not only provides explanations to the exiled heir's personality; it gives insight to referenced events. Elaine Isaak provides a solid second story to her saga.