The Runaway King by Jennifer A. Nielsen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The orphan has found his family. The boy has become a man. A Prince has become a King. The Runaway King is the second book in the False Prince series by Jennifer Nielson. In the first installment, the male protagonist, Sage, an orphan and thief is bought by a Noble to join other boys his age and learn how to become a Prince. With many obstacles and lies, Sage finds truth and friendship leading him to the throne of his ancestors becoming King Jaron.

The Runaway King is the continuation of Jaron's story and his journey to becoming a friend, man, and a King. King Jaron must look beyond his advisors to find a traitor who would send his former friend and now greatest enemy, Roden to assassinate him. This quest for truth leads the reader through a tale filled with adventure, pirates, thieves, sword fights, and friendship. Not only does Jaron learn what he is capable of to fight for the country he loves, he learns to see his friends beyond his enemies.

I enjoyed this story as much as the first and I am looking forward to the nest and final adventure. As I read I enjoyed Jaron's quick wit and barborous comments; at times I would even giggle. The characters have depth and I find myself looking rooting for certain battles to be won or romances to start. Jennifer Nielson has captured my heart with these stories and I would recommend them to any of my students, friends and family.

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