“You can choose the note you sing,” the minstrel hero of Daily’s fantasy trilogy is told in this climactic volume. Despite that promise, the likable protagonist, Lauren—so recently a student at Songhaven—finds himself weighed down with destiny. As the Endollin prophesied to either save the world or destroy it, Lauren now rides with a host of elven soldiers through a war-torn world and soon has a magic sword and ring bestowed upon him by no less than a dragon (or a vision of one), despite such wonders being thought mythic. A singer, historian, and storyteller rather than a fighter or leader, Lauren hardly feels up to his mission to “Seek the dragons” and “Wake the Old Ones,” especially as a corrupt goddess, Mar, and her servants target the kings of Alomar and control of the Federated Kingdoms of Alomar. Daily makes the unlikely hero’s acceptance of his destiny and power exciting and relatable, always emphasizing Lauren’s humanity and intelligence, especially his skills at studying and puzzle-solving, even as the stakes escalate, the armies maneuver, and the quests grow ever more urgent. Especially compelling are the questions of secret knowledge, hidden locations, and the possible mistranslation of ancient texts as Lauren trains and attempts to understand how his mysterious power actually works and whether he can be the warrior and hero who will turn the tide. Daily blends frank, inventive depictions of the perils of war and the handiwork of Mar with the strong sense of character and warm adventure storytelling that have distinguished the series. The world Lauren and company must fight for is traditional—expect unicorns and princesses—but Daily freshens up familiar fantasy elements with sincere feeling, page-turning pacing, and escalating suspense as Lauren gathers allies, accepts command, and follows his own moral compass. Lauren’s path is now “contrary to the custom and traditions of our people,” Lauren is told, but his remaining true to himself, in Daily’s telling, compels more than many cocky heroes’ relentless sword-swinging. Takeaway: Well-told classic fantasy adventure, as a young minstrel faces destiny. Great for fans of: Patricia McKillip, C.L. Clark. Production grades Cover: A Design and typography: A Editing: A Marketing copy: A