I've been waiting to read this trilogy for a while, recommended by my wife. This first volume sets the scene as Kelsea, the heir to the Tearling throne, is brought back to the capital to take the throne, facing assassins and plots all along the way.
Nicely building up the action and bringing along the plot at a fair rate, this novel also includes a fair deal of good characterisation as well as exciting action.
Well recommended and the second volume will be high on my reading list in the next few weeks.