From School Library Journal
Grade 4-8?In this third book about the indomitable and imaginative apprentice magician and her friends, magic, determination, loyalty, and hard work help them save the kingdom of Meldrith. In Wren to the Rescue (Harcourt, 1990), she began to discover her magical talent and used it to rescue Tess, the Crown Princess of Meldrith, from the wicked sorcerer Andreus. Now Andreus has returned for revenge and conquest. This is really Tess's war, as she finds herself unexpectedly commanding an army and ruling a kingdom after her parents' death at the hands of the invaders. Wren, Tyron (heir to the Court Magician), and Prince Connor (who has links to a magic older than any of them understand) all come to Tess's aid in fighting the enemy as well as the unrest within the kingdom. This is a coming-of-age experience for all four characters. Although the humor of the previous books bubbles up occasionally, these are serious times for Meldrith and its inhabitants. As in the earlier titles, the action and narrative shift among the protagonists as they spread out in different directions and on different missions. The trouble starts immediately and mounts rapidly; fans of the first two novels will follow this story raptly to its satisfying, tantalizing conclusion. The war is won, but personal battles and discoveries loom ahead. There's still a lot to learn about these interesting and emphatic characters. One hopes that another installment will be forthcoming!?Susan L. Rogers, Chestnut Hill Academy, PA
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Booklist
Gr. 5-8. Sequel to
Wren to the Rescue (1990) and
Wren's Quest (1993), this novel combines fantasy and adventure in a story laden with intrigue, power, war, and magic. Although Wren's name appears in the title, the story focuses just as much on Teressa, who struggles to understand herself and control her destiny. Princess Teressa, relieved that her state visit to the northern provinces is over, returns home to the castle only to see her parents brutally murdered. As opposing sides seek to gain control of her kingdom, she chooses to act as ruler rather than become a pawn in her enemies' game. Meanwhile, her old friends Wren, Tyron, and Connor use their magic, courage, and insight for the good of the princess and her people. Readers will enjoy the fast-paced plot, but the novel's greatest strength is the subtle portrayal of its characters. As Teressa, Wren, Tyron, and Connor mature, they become more interesting and their relationships more complex. Wren fans will be happy to note that the ending promises more adventures in a series that keeps getting better.
Carolyn Phelan
