Despite being the fourth book in the series, this book can
be read on its own. Xan is adapting to life outside of Harwood Abbey and he
questions if he made the correct decision. He has a crush on a co-worker and
friend named Christine which complicates his transition. Xan’s older cousin Nigel
has eyes for her too and appears to have plans to make her his wife. Christine
has a kind heart and beautiful face but she’s complicated by vanity and
ambition. Xan can’t compete with Nigel’s charm and position in society, so he’s
unsure what to do about his feelings for Christine. He’s disturbed when she’s
around Nigel but he knows she has a kind soul.
Religion and faith are major topics in the book. Xan leaves
his religious studies at Harwood Abbey to work in the merchant business with
his uncles. He strives for wisdom like Solomon in the bible and often recalls scripture
when making decisions. He counsels with Father Philip for guidance and
spiritual support and he often remembers his friend Lucy’s words as she studies
to become a nun. Xan notes the problems created when characters display
biblical sins such as vanity, coveting, and greed. He has much to learn about
the value of the wisdom he cherishes as Father Philip points out the pursuit of
wisdom comes with its own issues.
As the title indicates, this book contains a mystery and Xan
has a talent for solving them. Xan’s uncle is cursed by a witch and the family
is unable to find a cure. Even Father Philip’s blessings have no effect on nausea
and weakness that’s slowly killing Xan’s uncle. This conflict forms the main
focus of the story but Nigel may bring serious trouble to the family. He’s
corresponding with one of the king’s sons who has eyes on taking the throne.
The king and his followers may view this as treason so Nigel, his family, and
friends may be in danger of imprisonment or hanging. Then, Xan notices two
goons working for the Master in the area and knows they can’t be up to anything
good. Why are they leaving his uncles’ business?
What didn’t work as well:
The climax pulls in characters from previous books so they
seem like strangers jumping into the middle of the story, if readers haven’t
read the earlier books, like me. Most of the plot is unaffected by events in
earlier stories so readers can still enjoy this book. Reading the previous
books will make it easier to understand these “new” characters but it shouldn’t
detract from being entertained.
The Final Verdict:
The book has its moments of biblical reflection but it
doesn’t feel like readers are being preached to. The witch’s curse creates a compelling
conflict between good and evil with Xan having faith that God will triumph in
the end. Overall, I enjoyed the story and recommend you give it a shot.
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