The Heir of Mistmantle by M.I. McCallister

This book is the third in The Mistmantle Chronicles series, and I gave it a rating of four out of five. The main problem is that the baby princess, Catkin, has been kidnapped, and the animals of the kingdom spend most of the plot searching for her. In addition, an epidemic spreads, rain and flooding ravage the island, and rumors abound that the evil Husk has returned. Some of the animals start to question Crispin's ability to rule the kingdom and even blame his wife, Cedar, for all of the problems. Urchin is kept busy helping the sick, saving animals from the ravaging waters, and searching for the lost princess. Juniper discovers a secret about his parents that may change his life forever.

To be honest, the first half of the book didn't immediately grab my interest. The animals search for Catkin, but readers already know who did the kidnapping; the only question is when will she be found. The disease and rumors start to spread which isn't overly exciting. However, things get more interesting when the storm hits and adds more action and suspense to the plot. Sightings of Husk are reported, which makes readers wonder if he actually died in the first book; remember that his body was never found! Make sure you read the first two books in the series, or you may not finish reading this one.