Content levels
Trigger warnings
Positive tags
Hero archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Tropes
Synopsis
This is a prequell to the Changespell Saga, Dun Lady's Jess. King Benlan has been mudered, and his faithful friend and protector Ehrenof the King's Guard vows to find the killer. But the dead king's wizard has great influence on the new king, still an impressionable boy, and so Ehren is sent away to find Benlan's brother, to ensure that he is not gong to contest the new king for the throne. Ehren is angry, he suspects that the evil wizard had something to do with Benlan's death, and that he is being sent away so that he cannot prove it. But, while on his journey, Ehren falls in with a young man and his sister who are not who they appear to be, and Ehren realizes that he may not be so far off the track of the King's killer after all.. A gripping books of kings and wizards in a realm where magic is rigidley regulated, and women are treated as equals in all things, this book is a must read for everyone who likes to read a well- told story.
Is Barrenlands appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 13 and up.
This high fantasy prequel features a murdered king and a guard's quest for justice involving an evil wizard and political intrigue. Violence is present but not graphic, and the plot revolves around mystery and conspiracy.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, no sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include murder, deception, and political violence.
Publisher ages reflect reading level; our rating reflects content maturity — they can differ.
Who'll love this
Teens who love fantasy mysteries with knights, wizards, and political scheming will enjoy following Ehren as he uncovers a dangerous conspiracy.