Oath of Fealty.

Moon, Elizabeth. Oath of Fealty.
Ballantine see Random 2010 471p 25.00
978-0-345-50874-4 hs/adult VG-BN
Author Elizabeth Moon revisits Paksenarrion Dorthansdotter’s world, focusing on the many people affected by her actions in the trilogy and prequels published 20 years ago. More than two decades ago, Elizabeth Moon, then a first-time novelist, offered readers the “Deed of Paksenarrion” trilogy. Later, to tie up loose ends, Moon published two prequels. With “Oath of Fealty,” Moon returns to the world and time of paladin Paksenarrion. “Fealty” is a page-turner; Ms. Moon’s experience and maturity as a seasoned writer ensure that characters and events are consistent with the earlier stories, avoiding inconsistencies and contradictions.
The book is not about Paksenarrion, instead focusing on the many people affected by her actions during the final half of “Oath of Gold.” Multiple plot lines don’t often intersect, so readers may find it challenging to follow several parallel story lines simultaneously. Kieri Phelan (once Duke) and his elven grandmother, jointly rule Lyonya. Captain Dorrin Varraki becomes involved in her family’s dark plots when Kieri’s royal progress is declared treason by Tasian Crown Prince Mikeli. Captain Jandelir Arcolin becomes the leader of Keri’s former ducal holdings. Paks plays only a minor role in this novel.

This is the first of a projected trilogy, but stands well on its own -- even if the reader has not had the opportunity to read “Deed.” Welliver, Hilary