About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is beginning to navigate complex social hierarchies or is struggling with the realization that people are rarely who they first appear to be. It is a masterclass in perspective, showing how a person who seems foolish or weak can actually be operating with profound intelligence and hidden strength. Through the eyes of a young guard, readers learn that true leadership often involves sacrifice, silence, and the courage to be misunderstood. Set in a Mediterranean-inspired fantasy world, the story follows Eugenides, a young king who has lost his hand and is viewed with contempt by his own court. As he mentors a young soldier named Costis, the narrative explores deep themes of loyalty, the weight of responsibility, and the nuance of empathy. While it is the third in a series, it stands remarkably well on its own as a sophisticated exploration of character and political intrigue suitable for middle schoolers and young teens.
