After four books in The Paladin’s Legacy series, Elizabeth Moon brings the storyline to close in the fifth and final novel in the series, Crown of Renewal. Moon not only brings together the storylines first introduced and she began to unravel in Oath of Fealty, the first of this five book series, but she tied in arcs and themes first introduced in the initial Deed of Paksenarrion trilogy and the Legacy of Gird prequel duology. So you might say this book has a lot of weight both metaphorically and physically, it is after all a tad over 500 pages. However, Ms. Moon points out in a preface two things: this is not a place to start reading the series and some events depicted in this novel overlap or precede events depicted in the previous novel.
That having been said, the main thread of the novel deals with Dorrin Verrakai and how, as Duke, she adjust to the political and military power she possesses coming into conflict and with the magical power growing within her and in the land. She is quite symbolic of the various changes occurring in the world of the novel. When she was appointed Duke, she was the first female to be appointed such a role. Her family line provided conflict and trust issues over those whom she presided. Change is thrust upon her again when she is given the task of transporting a magical crown that speaks to her as if she is queen. Dorrin must make some difficult choices about her status as Duke and Heir, two roles that she cannot hold. Unfortunately, the choice she makes affects more than just herself.
While Kieri is present in the novel, the story of him, his wife and their twins takes a bit of a backseat for much of the narrative here. One of their chief conflicts as King and Queen is the burgeoning twins and if they have mage powers. Add to that, an antagonist Kieri thought he’d conquered. However, the resolution of these conflicts in comes to a rewarding head (if somewhat quick resolution) by novels end, tying into events that have surrounded Kierie and Arian for the majority of the series.
Meanwhile, Kieri’s brother Camyn is hurt or missing, until a mysterious stranger provides some information about the prince. As it turns out, the mysterious stranger is the Dragon in human form. Where Arvid Semminson had greater focus in previous novels, here he is more of a supporting character, though the chapters focusing on his ascension in the ranks of Gird loyalists prove some of the most rewarding in the series. Arvid’s transformation from thief to adventurer to ranking official in the military and a ‘go-to’ for spiritual matters relating to Gird’s way was perhaps my favorite storyline throughout the series.
Arcolin deals with his place in the gnome hierarchy and how that hierarchy fits into the growing relationship between men, elves and gnomes. He is somehow now a gnome prince. He decides to officially adopt his step-son Jamis and name the young man as his heir. This is a decision that seems right by him, but is questioned by those around him.
Throughout the series, and especially here in Crown of Renewal, there’s a strong, underlying theme of doing what is right for the greater good. To borrow a phrase, the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few. Whether this prevalent theme is a consequence of Ms. Moon’s military experience where the greater good is served on a regular basis, I can’t say. But her handling of such acts of sacrifice and heroism provide for satisfying moments throughout the novel.
Reviewing a final book provides a thin line one must tow, in terms of revealing story points in too much depth. While I confess that some patches of the journeys depicted in the novel didn’t enthrall me as much as others, on the whole, Crown of Renewal (and the five books which comprise The Paladin’s Legacy) proved once again that Elizabeth Moon provides me with novels I enjoy and find satisfying from character and (mostly) plot perspective. In other words, throughout, I found this to be a dependable Fantasy series that delivered an immersive and enjoyable reading experience. While some of the plot points and character movements went to places I may not have expected, my high expectations for a novel I could dive into and trust to tell me a good story were well met. Although there was a great deal of satisfaction for some of the character’s storylines, it felt like there is more story to be told. For example, Dorrin had a small measure of closure and her story can end here, there’s potential to read more about what happens to her after this series and novel concludes in that her ending *could* be seen as a pause before something more. Arvid’s story had a greater sense of closure than Dorrin’s, but I’d still be pleased to read more about his adventures and travails. The same can be said for Arcolin, too. I liked the characters, I empathized with them and felt connected to their plights throughout the five books. At least as important, Oath of Fealty, the first in this series, was the first book I read by Elizabeth Moon and now I consider myself a fan of her work. As a result of reading and enjoying Oath of Fealty, I was compelled to read the original The Deeds of Paksenarrion trilogy which I thoroughly enjoyed. You don’t absolutely need to read that trilogy (but you should), this five book series stands fairly well on its own. The Paladin’s Legacy is series of long, ultimately rewarding and enjoyable novels.
Recommended
Published by Del Rey / Hardcover ISBN 978-0-345-53309-8
June 2014 / 528 Pages
http://www.paksworld.com
Electronic copy courtesy of the publisher, physical copy was a gift
© 2015 Rob H. Bedford
