(3) 4-6 Shield, Sword, and Crown series. When his friend Weasel is taken hostage in an attempted coup, naive but likable Prince Edoran sets out alone to rescue him--but inexperience may be his own worst enemy. Time spent incognito in a fishing village teaches him the strength of character needed to accept his destiny. Bell brings her well-conceived, well-executed series to a satisfying conclusion.

Reviewer: Anita L. Burkam

(3) 4-6 Shield, Sword, and Crown series. Charged by her former-outlaw-turned-military-commander mother with befriending Prince Edoran, Arisa finds in him an ally in her covert investigations into palace intrigue and the missing Sword of Waters. With Weasel (from Shield of Stars), the trio thwarts a treasonous plot--but Arisa's own loyalties are strained. A well-told tale with sympathetic characters and irresistible challenges.

Reviewer: Anita L. Burkam

(3) 4-6 Shield, Sword, and Crown series. Pickpocket-turned-law-clerk Weasel has two weeks to save his employer from execution. With girl-adventurer Arisa Benison, Weasel goes in search of reinforcements for a jail break. Although Weasel's oft-stated philosophy of looking out for number one is never made credible, Bell soon dispenses with it and settles down to a good old-fashioned trickster caper. This offering sustains Bell's reputation for thought-provoking light fantasy.

Reviewer: Anita L. Burkam