"Her [Canavan's] magical world is brilliantly conceived." --- RT Book Reviews on The Magician's Apprentice"Some excellent reading to be had." --- Robert N. Stephenson on The Novice"This captivating tale has already been hailed by critics as a 'must for lovers of good fantasy'." --- Marie Claire (Australia) on The Magicians' Guild

Kyralia is facing threats at home and abroad, as a rogue killer stalks its capital's streets, while the neighbouring kingdom of Sachaka is breeding a rebellion that could destabilise the entire region.

High Lord Akkarin and Sonea's son Lorkin has a legacy of heroism to live up to, but despite his good intentions, his incarceration in Sachaka's rebel traitor stronghold could destroy the tenuous peace between the two countries. Angered by Lorkin's seeming defection the Sachakans blame the Kyralian ambassador, Danny--and they are a savage people when roused.

And back home, in the University, two young novices are about to remind the Guild that sometimes their greatest enemy comes from within . . .