The Wizard's Apprentice (Keepers)

Rating:
Summary: Second exciting fantasy adventure in the Keepers trilogy.
Review: Eleven-year-old Nell has done the unthinkable -- she has completed the quest to meet the Imperial Wizard, something no girl in her land of Eldearth has ever accomplished. Now, she may be able to become the next Imperial Wizard. But there is still much standing in her way. She has always thought that she was the only child and heir of her father, the King of Xandria, one of the kingdoms of Eldearth. But she learns she has a twin brother, Owen, who was hidden away at birth. Now her father refuses to even consider granting her request to train as Imperial Wizard -- he wants his newfound son to be trained instead. Nell resents that Owen has the chance just because he is a boy. Once again, Nell must set out on her own to prove her worth and help her kingdom.

Readers who enjoyed the first fantasy adventure featuring Nell won't want to miss this continuation of her story. Nell is a very likable character that will appeal especially to young girls who enjoy reading about strong and determined heroines who defy the odds.

Rating:
Summary: An unexpected twist
Review: Eleven-year-old Princess Arenelle "Nell", has accomplished what no other girl of Eldearth had ever done, she completed the quest to become the Imperial Wizard, the most important figure in the land who guards Eldearth from the dark evil forces. Nell is overjoyed that she will soon begin the required training to become the Imperial Wizard. However an unexpected twist of events might threaten everything for Nell. When Nell's father, King Einar, discovers that his long lost son, and Nell's twin brother is actrually alive, he denies Nell the right to proceed with her training. The boy instead must become the Imperial Wizard like tradition says. Nell is of course extremely hurt and outraged, even more when she finds out that her twin brother is no other than Owen, the person she used to pose as her at the Witch Academy so that she could complete her quest. Now all seems to be lost just because she is a girl. That is until Owen falls into the hands of the evil forces. Nell once again must prove that she is worthy to become the Imperial Wizard and save the day for her family and Eldearth.

This is a worthy continuation of Nell's story. Nell is a strong girl character that appeals very well with the audience. Girls will very much like to read about her battle against prejudices and how she beats all the odds against her. A definite recommendation.