A review by finitha
Heir to Thorn and Flame by Ben Alderson

3.0

'Heir to Thorn and Flame' is the first book in the War of the Wood series. I am no stranger to Ben Alderson's style and even though this story may not quite reach the heights of 'Lord of Eternal Night', it undeniably serves as a fantastic kick-off to the series. Mages, dragons, familial bonds and treacherous betrayals . . . what is not to like?
Accidentally killing the heir to the throne, Max is forced to wear his mantle and marry Prince Camron. Plagued by uncertainty and torn between loyalties, he finds himself in a precarious position as his parents remain captive in the clutches of his enemies. Whom should he trust? Dangerously attractive Camron or Simion the dragon riding spy or his loyal but secretive friend, Beatrice? Delving further into the plot will only spoil your reading experience, and thus, I better refrain from divulging any more details.
I should warn you though . .. there is sort of a love triangle in the beginning which is almost resolved towards the end. Aaah!! I do hope that the author will pick that plot point again . . . at present my sympathies lay with the (presumed) villain. Sigh! Can't wait to read the next one.