Realm of Thorns — R.J. Larson

ONE THOUSAND YEARS BEFORE: A fading empire's strife heralds an approaching Dark Age.Khelqua, the crown of the Syvlande Empire, has been destroyed. The royal house of Khelqua lies drowned beneath a prophesied destruction of its vast river valley, leaving an ocean of dead waters. Khelqua's ancient royal lineage now rests with two siblings, who have lost their family, their fortunes, and the realm that defines their existence.Their chosen destinies stir hope and danger for countless generations to come … as the Syvlande Empire becomes mere legend. Larson makes the fantasy genre thrilling even for readers who wouldn't normally venture into mystical realms. Though the battles waged resemble tales from the Old Testament, there is no preaching here, merely a compelling story of good versus evil in which good is sure to triumph. --Booklist