The Orchid Throne

Kennedy’s romantic fantasy trilogy launch meanders through pleasant territory, but never really gets off the ground. Emotionally reserved Queen Euthalia brilliantly maneuvers politically to guard Calanthe, her untouched magical island. However, Euthalia’s devious plans to avoid marriage to a destructive emperor, Anure, are threatened by the rebellious, cynical “Slave King” Conrí, heir to a decimated kingdom, and his companions, vengeful Sondra and prophecy-wielding wizard Ambrose. While grim, self-hating Conrí conquers his way toward the fulfillment of Ambrose’s prophecy, Euthalia’s long-term machinations are endangered. Once Euthalia and Conrí meet, they must learn to trust each other despite conflicting goals. The plot plateaus early and does not gain impetus except when Euthalia and Conrí meet at last and must argue the merits of their differing plans to overcome Anure. A few plot threads are left dangling; it’s telegraphed that the sequel will feature larger conflicts and hopefully more interaction between Euthalia and Conrí. Appealing characters will win readers over enough to make the second book worth anticipating. Agent: Sarah Younger, Nancy Yost Literary. (Oct.)