Katherine Kurtz, Childe Morgan

Childe Morgan

Katherine Kurtz

Ace, December 2006, $24.95

ISBN 0441012825

In the kingdom of Gwynedd, King Donal Haldane grieves the loss of his out of wedlock offspring Kelson, whom he thought would make a suitable companion to his heir, fourteen year old Prince Brion. Still, the monarch feels good that four year old half-breed Deryni Alaric Morgan has been pledged by his parents to use his magic like they do, to keep the rulers safe, though the vow must be kept secret, even as the king keeps the Deryni safe from fanatical religious tyranny.

King Donal knows he walks a dangerous line as he protects the Deryni, because his Bishops, especially Bishop Oliver de Nore, whose brother was executed by order of the king for having Kelson killed, would excommunicate him without a second thought. Besides the troubles with the religious leaders, neighboring nation Torenth threatens to invade. However, though feeling his age and his concerns, Donal receives good news that gives him hope for the future; he learns that Torenth Prince Nimur is dead, and his younger brother Torval is insane because they played with dangerous taboo magic. Still, Prince Hogan has his mage Zachris Pomeroy preparing to cause havoc, as he wants the throne, with Alaric being the key to preventing a hostile takeover.

This is an interesting Deryni tale, though the action is somewhat limited, as much of what occurs is off screen mostly from an introspective King Donal. The monarch is a fascinating character, as he struggles with the Bishops, his neighbors, and betrayals to insure his son inherits the throne, and has the Deryni protection to keep him safe, yet is feeling weary and worn out. This is more of a character study of a tired medieval ruler than a fantasy, but fans of the series still will appreciate his plight, but more so when the Deryni use their magic.