The Destined Queen

Common country girl Maura Woodbury discovered not so long ago that legends are truly based on fact. Informed by her wizard guardian, Langbard, that she was the “Destined Queen”, she set out on a mission to save the people of Umbria from the dreaded Han by awakening the “Waiting King”. When Langbard fell victim to murder, Maura was forced to rely on Rath Talward, a ruthless outlaw, for protection. With each new obstacle thrown their way, Maura and Rath began to form a very special bond with one another. Maura knew she mustn't fall in love with him because she was promised to the “Waiting King” upon his awakening during the full moon on Solsticetide in the Secret Glade. Fate had other plans, however, and the couple fell deeply in love and later discovered Rath was indeed the “Waiting King”.

Now the couple faces an entirely different set of problems. Without Langbard to guide her, Maura is clueless as to what to do next in order to liberate the Umbrian people. Rath is far from the prophesied “Waiting King” depicted in legend, wielding no magical powers or an insuperable army. It seems all hope is lost until a messenger bird arrives carrying a scrolled parchment from the Vestan Island, home to the Elders.

Uncertainty and dread lodge deep into Maura and Rath as they set out to answer the message. They travel across sea, barely escaping death to learn that even the Elders believed the “Waiting King” and “Destined Queen” were a myth. It takes a great deal of convincing on their part to secure the help they need for their people, but is it too late?

The Destined Queen is the follow-up to The Wizard's Ward and continues Maura and Rath's search for peace amongst the Umbrian people. The love developed between these two characters is put to the ultimate test as they express their different hopes, dreams, and fears. At some points in this story, you can feel your heart breaking, while at others, you want to stand up and cheer. Deborah Hale is a master at spinning fantasy realms and her characters are so real, they leap off the pages at you. The Destined Queen was a book I couldn't put down and one I was truly sad to see end. It will captivate you and draw you in until you are convinced that just maybe the “Waiting King” and “Destined Queen” really do exist.

Reviewed by: Jennifer M.