so good :) nice back story can't wait for more. ( )

so good :) nice back story can't wait for more. ( )

Book two picks up shortly after book one. Merlin has been tasked with restoring the land of Fincayra with the magical Flowering Harp; travelling the lands and with the pluck of a chord, Merlin is able to bring the once decaying and blight stricken land alive again. During his travels he realizes he cannot fully complete his task while his mind strays to thoughts of his mother. He thinks that if he can just being his mother to Fincayra, he can continue his mission to restore the lands, and all will be well. When Merlin brings his mother to Fincayra only to have her fall deathly ill, he has but one month to bring her the cure. The cure can only be found by discovering the Seven Souls of Wisdom, and traveling to the other world to defeat the mighty Ogre Balor and only then requesting it from the great Dagda himself. With time of the essence, Merlin sets out with the help of his ever loyal friend Rhia and an unlikely Jester on a mission wrought with danger in an attempt to save his mother.

Another magical read! While the hubris of youth definitely makes Merlin a frustrating character this go around (seriously, was I ever this much of an ass when I was a teenager?! I'd like to think not *cough cough*) his struggle is relatable to all of us who have navigated the confusing years of adolescences, if at much higher stakes. Once again Merlin must use his wits and cunning to navigate and understand Seven Souls of Wisdom; which are lessons and parables of life. Rhia, as ever, was the perfect balance to Merlins temper and impulsiveness, and a startling revelation about her left me literally speechless (No spoilers!). Shim of course was a delight to read again, and all the new characters along the way were the perfect addition to this growing cast of much loved characters. Although predictable at times, this series continues to be a growing favorite with it's action, magic, and underlying themes of good vs evil. Thoroughly enjoyable and recommended! ( )

It was well written but not as good as many other texts. ( )

So good! ( )