Froi of the exiles by Melina Marchetta

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Book Two of the Lumatere Chronicles. Penguin, 2011. ISBN: 978-0-670-07608-6.
After reading the first two books of the Lumatere Chronicles I have discovered that the chronicles are much more than just books, both Finnikin of the Rock and Froi of the Exiles are epic fantasies of the kind that are rarely seen today. Both have, I believe, the genius of something similar to The lord of the Rings and Harry Potter. The only books I've read by Melina Marchetta have left me with a hunger for more.
Froi of the Exiles follows three years after its predecessor in the kingdom of Lumatere of Skuldenor. The curse of Lumatere has been lifted and trade is just beginning between Lumatere and its neighbours. But all is not well. The Mont valley suffers an 'infestation' of sorts; Charynite's have come to beg sanctuary from their own. They bring with them wild talk of plague, curses and plots to kill a king. In order for peace to return to the Valley Froi is dispatched on a mysterious mission to Charyn; but what he finds there amidst the anarchy will leave him questioning his home, his heart and even his way of life.
This richly woven tale is guaranteed to keep the reader on the edge of their seat and while some concepts may be frightening and confusing to readers younger then fourteen I would easily recommend this novel to anyone with a thirst for fantasy. I have to add that I thoroughly enjoyed every page of both books of Lumatere and I'm sure we will soon be hearing of awards won by Froi of the Exiles. The next instalment is expected in October this year, entitled Quintana of Charyn.
Kayla Gaskell, (Student, 15)

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