A Conspiracy of Princes

by Justin Somper

Overview

The second book in Justin Somper's Allies & Assassins series delivers another twisted tale of high-stakes betrayal and political machinations set amid a lush medieval background.

The newly crowned Prince Jared, ruler of All Archenfield, has inherited a kingdom in crisis. The murder of his older brother has revealed a traitorous plot in his court, calling into question who, if anyone, Jared can trust as he ascends the throne. Now the realm is on the brink of invasion from the brutal princes of Paddenburg and Jared must travel to neighboring kingdoms in search of allies to defend his throne. Little does he know that an even more dangerous plot is hatching in the Archenfield court--one that threatens to remove Jared from power. One put in motion by the very people he left in charge.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780316253963
Publisher:	Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Publication date:	05/26/2015
Series:	Allies & Assassins Series , #2
Sold by:	Hachette Digital, Inc.
Format:	eBook
File size:	3 MB
Age Range:	12 - 17 Years

About the Author

Justin Somper is the worldwide bestselling author of the Vampirates series, which has been published in 25 languages in 35 countries. When he isn't writing, he works with other authors as a publicist and trainer. He lives in London with his partner and two energetic dogs.

Editorial Reviews

Praise for A Conspiracy of Princes:
"Somper has created a strong cast of well-defined characters, each with a distinct personality. There are so many conspiracies, alliances, betrayals, and deceptions that even careful readers will not be sure who is to be trusted... VERDICT Action-packed and fast-paced, this sequel will have fans of medieval adventure and intrigue eager for [a] third installment."—School Library Journal

Praise for Allies & Assassins:

"Drawing on premedieval Welsh courts for inspiration, Somper breathes life into the inner workings of his fantasy kingdom....With its focus on forensics investigation and suspense, this is both political thriller and royal drama....Solid and entertaining."—Publishers Weekly


"From the first page of this hefty volume, the Princedom of Archenfield is plunged into mystery, danger, and intrigue....Somper manages to keep the mystery alive with many red herrings, surprises, and plot twists, while deftly setting up the scenario for a sequel. Fans of medieval adventure, murder mysteries, and romance will all find something to like here, and readers will eagerly await the continuation of the this engrossing saga."—School Library Journal

"....Those who like the mechanics of forensic detective work will enjoy watching Asta and Jared attempt to logically and scientifically solve the crimes, unknowingly hampered by their lack of modern equipment and know-how. Both teens fight to be taken seriously, and their friendship is a solid component of the story, balancing the huge cast of characters. A cliff-hanger ending will leave readers wanting more."—Booklist

From the Publisher

11/01/2015
Gr 7 Up—When readers last met young Prince Jared in Allies and Assassins (Little, Brown, 2014), he had just solved the mystery of his brother's death, exposing traitors and murderers among his most trusted allies. Now, as he readies himself for his coronation as Prince of All Archenfield, he is faced with another threat to his beloved homeland. The Princes of Paddenburg have given him less than a week to surrender the assassin, or their superior armies will invade. Rather than face the enemy alone, Jared rides to some of the neighboring kingdoms, hoping to form alliances and bolster his weakened army. As soon as he leaves, however, one of his own Council of Twelve stages a coup, deposing him as Prince. Through battles, bloodshed, treachery and espionage, Prince Jared fights to keep his throne, home, and kingdom, never knowing who can be trusted, and who is plotting against him. Somper has created a strong cast of well-defined characters, each with a distinct personality. There are so many conspiracies, alliances, betrayals, and deceptions that even careful readers will not be sure who is to be trusted. Although some characters are re-introduced and explanations and background are occasionally included, reading the first volume is recommended. VERDICT Action-packed and fast-paced, this sequel will have fans of medieval adventure and intrigue eager for the third installment.—MaryAnn Karre, West Middle School, Binghamton, NY

School Library Journal