Finnikin of the rock - Melina Marchetta

A gripping, beautifully woven fantasy about a broken kingdom and a blossoming romance.

Ten years after he pledges an oath in blood to protect Lumatere, Finnikin's cursed kingdom is at the mercy of a murderous imposter. He and his mentor must enlist the help of Evanjalin, an enigmatic young woman who claims the heir to the throne still lives. As Finnikin fights for the truth, he must also contend with the growing intensity of his own feelings for her. The first in the Lumatere Chronicles trilogy, this is a fast-paced, compelling read that will engross the most discerning of fantasy fans, along with newcomers to the genre.