Three children meet—by chance—on the battlefield where the kingdom of Hoad’s peaceful future is being negotiated. The king’s third son, the “mad” prince; the princess-heir of a minor province; and an aboriginal boy who’s “not right” gradually mature into their predestined roles of royal successors and court magician. Hans Christian Andersen–award winner Margaret Mahy explores the mysteries and complexities of freedom, friendship, fate, treach ery, and love in this complex fantasy set in an imaginary kingdom—much like the real world—where peace is not always desired by all. 2010 USBBY Outstanding International Books List. Mahy was awarded the Order of New Zea land and in 2006 won the Hans Christian Andersen Award. She has also twice won the Carnegie Medal, been honored by New Zealand as a Living Icon, and received the Prime Minister’s Award for Literary Achievement in Fiction. lmp

Originally published by HarperCollins New Zealand, in 2008.

Where will your destiny lead you?

For as long as he can remember, Heriot Tarbas has been plagued with fits, headaches, dreams, and nightmares that make him feel as if a part of his very self is being torn away. His visions are only whispered about in his quiet life on the family farm. But when the King of Hoad hears word of his powers and seeks him out to be a member of the royal court, it becomes clear that Heriot has a gift, and a valuable one. While Heriot unwillingly learns to use his mind-reading and other abilities to serve the king as his most trusted advisor, four remarkably different lives—that of a Hero, a Magician, a noble girl, and a Prince—weave their way, for better or for worse, toward his. When their paths finally converge in the midst of political upheaval, hand-to-hand battles, and burgeoning romances, Heriot must decide how he’ll choose to use his magic—and what his destiny will be.

With a complex cast of characters set against a majestic land, award-winning author Margaret Mahy weaves her magic in a fantastical tale exploring the meaning of truth, freedom, and loyalty to one’s greater destiny.