 |
In the Kingdom of Sterling, Princess Elinore's hand in marriage is offered as a prize for passing The Test, a challenge set forth to find a fitting suitor capable of justly ruling the land. After many failed attempts, Prince Abram, a mysterious and bold young prince from a foreign country, somehow manages to succeed. But when Prince Abram's claim to the throne is challenged by Robert of Danforth, a local villager, Elinore must pass her own test and make a choice: Should she follow her heart, or do what is best for her people? And is marriage even the answer for a woman clearly capable of ruling the kingdom herself?
Young adult readers will be especially charmed and inspired by Princess Elinore, a fitting heroine for this compelling quest narrative. Known for her beauty and indomitable spirit, she is a strong and adventurous female protagonist who acts with agency. Her kingdom espouses a democratic attitude, with an emphasis placed on hard work and equality, as evidenced by her ability to speak her mind, defend herself, and ride alone. She may appear to be the quintessential fair maiden, but Palmer deftly creates a multifaceted character who is all too aware of the role she is expected to play. Although the fast-paced plot is certainly engrossing, the story is at its best when the reader witnesses Elinore meditate and question the meaning of love, marriage, motherhood, and her duty as a leader.
In the end, Elinore's Choice is an intelligent coming of age tale, which blurs the boundaries between fantasy genre writing and character-driven, young adult literature. While the story comes to a satisfying conclusion, the reader will be left wanting to hear more about Elinore and the beautiful nation of Rimrock Island.