S.C. Butler, Reiffen’s Choice

Reiffen's Choice

S.C. Butler

Tor, September 2006, $25.95

ISBN: 0765314770

Twelve year old Reiffen is heir to monarchies, the Kingdoms of Wayland and Banking, but lives with his mom Hern in Valing away from the intrigue of the courts. However, the three most powerful wizards decide that Reiffen is the perfect puppet for them to rule over both lands. They abduct the lad, taking him to Ussene and warning him they have an offer he better not refuse. The trio will place him on both thrones and teach him to use magic, but he must pledge loyalty to them; if he refuses they will magically turn him into a puppet, with them controlling his strings. REIFFEN'S CHOICE in either case is to become their pawn.

A distraught Hern orders that great big rug, Redburr the shape-shifting bear to save her beloved offspring. Redburr recruits Nolo the dwarf and Reiffen's two best friends, Avender and Ferris to help them rescue the lad from the most powerful force in the countries. Somehow, the four of them must free Reiffen from the terrible Three.

The first book in the Stoneway's trilogy is a charming young adult fantasy, which for the most part follows the adventures of the rescuers as they travel through the upside down world of the mountain dwarves heading to Ussene. Thus, the audience for the most part learns much more about the quartet than the title character. Though Nolo comes out of Lord of the Rings' casting 101, Redburr is an interesting leader whose roar is mightier than his bite, except with his enemies. Avender and Ferris are somewhat interchangeable, but no one will care, as young fans will trek with the travelers on their quest.