A Conspiracy of Kings by Megan Whelan Turner

This is the final book in one of my favorite series.  I had heard from my kids who had already read it, that is book was not as good as the The King of Attolia (how could it be?) but it is still a solid end to the series. I think I agree.  This book follows the adventures of Gen's friend, Sophos, as he is kidnapped and then sold into slavery, only to escape and ultimately claim his rightful place of ruler of his kingdom.  OK, that is a bit of a spoiler, but it isn't that he does it, but how, that makes this an interesting read.  If you like the political intrigue and maneuvering of the King of Attolia, then you will enjoy this book as well.  The place where this book falls behind the others in the series is that it is about Sophos and he just isn't as interesting as Gen is in the other books. But what could Ms Turner do? Gen is one of the most interesting characters of all teen literature. He is a pretty hard act to follow.  This book does provide an important final chapter to Gen's story, so read it, understanding what it is, and isn't, and then you won't be disappointed. (316 p)