Book details
The False Prince (The Ascendance Series, Book 1)
Description
A modern classic by #1New York Times bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen, The False Prince thrills with wild twists and turns, danger and deceit, and the revelation of hidden identities that will have readers rushing breathlessly to the end.In a discontented kingdom, civil war is brewing. To unify the divided people, Conner, a nobleman of the court, devises a cunning plan to find an impersonator of the king's long-lost son and install him as a puppet prince. Four orphans are recruited to compete for the role, including a defiant boy named Sage. Sage knows that Conner's motives are more than questionable, yet his life balances on a sword's point -- he must be chosen to play the prince or he will certainly be killed. But Sage's rivals have their own agendas as well.As Sage moves from a rundown orphanage to Conner's sumptuous palace, layer upon layer of treachery and deceit unfold, until finally, a truth is revealed that, in the end, may very well prove more dangerous than all of the lies taken together.Read the book that started it all! #1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen weaves a thrilling tale of grand adventure, intrigue, and treason packed with battles of wits and wills in this rollercoaster of a read.
Age
8-18
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
400 pages
Book in series
#1
Why to read
- Engaging Plot: 'The False Prince' offers a thrilling and fast-paced story that combines intrigue, adventure, and twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The plot centers around an orphan named Sage who is forced into a competition to impersonate the kingdom's long-lost prince, leading to a tale of deception and survival.
- Strong Character Development: Jennifer A. Nielsen has crafted a set of memorable characters with complex personalities and motivations. Sage, the protagonist, is particularly well-developed, with a sharp wit and a rebellious streak that makes him an endearing and relatable character.
- Political Intrigue: The book delves into the political machinations of a royal court, providing a fascinating look at power struggles, alliances, and betrayals. Readers interested in the inner workings of a kingdom and the cunning it takes to navigate such a world will find this aspect of the story compelling.
- Themes of Identity and Morality: Throughout the narrative, 'The False Prince' explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and the moral dilemmas that come with assuming a role that is not one's own. These themes resonate with readers, prompting them to consider their own values and the lengths they would go to protect themselves or others.