The False Prince ~ Jennifer A Nielsen

At 4 o'clock today, I sat down with a glass of wine and a manuscript. With just a couple of necessary breaks (wine will do that), I did not get up until the manuscript was read. It is now 8:10. If there is a higher commendation of this novel, I cannot conceive of it. And I would challenge anyone else to just try to put this book down unfinished.

This is simply a captivating adventure. Nothing is lacking. Political intrigue. Hidden identity. Lies told for good reasons. And bad. Promises kept. And not. Loyal subjects, black villainy, and much soul searching. A good dose of swash-buckle and skulking in hidden corridors in the dark night. A young prince, a beautiful princess, a murdered king, and a plucky kitchen maid. And, even though you know from the outset that the good guys will win (it's just too epic of a tale for maudlin post-modern darkness), it is still supremely interesting to see how.

Inside the front cover of this manuscript is a signed letter urging our store staff to read it, signed by a large chunk of the Scholastic publicity staff. When it came to Alamosa Books, we all chuckled about it (how sweet. . .) and then put it aside in favor of more pressing issues. I can only say, I wish I'd taken their advice sooner.

I'm eagerly awaiting the next stage!

This is a book that everyone will read and read again. Teachers, if you have reluctant readers, put this in their hands and just watch how quickly they gobble it up. Parents, if you want a good read aloud for younger readers, take this one home. But be prepared for pleas to keep going. Fantasy lovers, if you crave a good adventure, it just doesn't get any better!