Heaven's Needle
A Novel of Ithelas
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- $24.99
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- $24.99
Publisher Description
The second book in an epic fantasy series featuring “an inspired new world where unexpected plot twists bedevil strong, clearly visualized characters, in a story that glints with intelligence and hums with life” (Publishers Weekly, starred review).
Six hundred years ago, an unknown force destroyed one of the greatest fortresses in Ithelas, slaughtering its defenders so swiftly that none survived to say what befell them. Now, in the shadow of those ancient ruins, something malevolent is stirring.
Kelland, a divinely blessed Knight of the Sun, is charged with the duty of confronting the felled powers of the world. But his only chance of stopping this evil may be to ally with another—even as Bitharn, his companion, betrays their faith in the name of love. Meanwhile, three young novices from the Dome of the Sun, accompanied by a scarred and taciturn swordswoman, venture bravely but unwisely into the heart of danger, seeking a holy artifact that, they pray, might end it. And when their paths converge in Carden Vale, a nightmare awaits.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Merciel's impressive second novel of Ithelas (after 2010's The River Kings' Road) stands on its own as a page-turning high fantasy that tackles some tough questions about good and evil. In order to save her companion Kelland from the dungeons of Ang'arta, Bitharn must free the Thornlord Malentir from Heaven's Needle, Cailan's most secure prison. The task is physically easy for Bitharn, but she struggles with the knowledge that she is committing high treason. Once the deed is done, instead of making a quick, painless exchange of prisoners and going their separate ways, Bitharn, Kelland, and Malentir learn of an evil plot that they must overcome together. Major and secondary characters face numerous questions of faith and impossible choices as the plot becomes ever more layered, drawing readers deeply into an enthralling world of magic, politics, and battle.
