The Finest Challenge

What a fun book and a great read. The fast-paced adventures of Kal and Rue (also known as Gallant Stallion) continue in this novel about a young girl and her guardian angel--who happens to be a horse! The bad guys are out in force and a terrible war must be ended. There is something great about the determination of Kal, who shows us how to have courage no matter how bad it gets.

Having been a fan of Jean Rabe since her Dragonlance novels, I was very pleased to see her get the chance to create and play in her own world with the Finest trilogy, and I'm even happier to see that the third volume continues the wonderful writing and plot of the first two. It's refreshing to see characters, especially young adults, who know everything and aren't able to save the kingdom and tie everything up in a neat little bow; her heroes and heroines come across as real in their worry and hurt and struggle to make the right choices. And her take on such fantasy tropes as sentient animals (love the deadly flock of birds!) is a fresh breath of originality in endless books and films of talking animals and magical creatures. Kudos on a delightful journey...with the possible hint of more to come.

Jean Rabe brings the story of Meven, Kalantha, and Gallant Stallion to an action-packed conclusion, but leaves hints that may lead to a larger continuing story. Once again, Jean does a superb job portraying the world of the Fallen Favorites, as well as the world of their protectors, the Finest Creations. I especially enjoyed the chapter-beginning quotes from a variety of Finest characters, the battle descriptions, and the mix of impetuousness, stubborness, and wisdom in young Kalantha. Of course, the swarming, deadly, evil birds of the series are an interesting and original contribution to fantasy literature. Lavane is also a wonderful new character, though I confess I wanted him to do even more behind Nineon's back. I can only hope that he figures prominently in any continuing adventures. A fun read for YA and fantasy fans, with a serious side in its portrayal of the realities of war and the difficulties in simply stopping the fighting. Recommended.