The Belly of the Wolf (Lens of the World, Book 3) - Softcover

YA?The "Lens of the World" is Nazhuret, the half-breed orphan of two nobilities whose separateness enables him to bring the world's realities into a clear focus. In this book, readers discover that they have been trespassing on Nazhuret's privacy; the earlier two volumes in the trilogy have been published without his permission, and their power has gained him unwanted followers. With the death of his great friend, King Rudof, Nazhuret finds himself unwillingly drawn into the struggle for power being fought in the name of a philosophy he disavows, but which is inextricably linked to him. Combat, flight, assassinations, duels, and wilderness survivals crowd the plot, but despite the action, this is a thoughtful book. Nazhuret finds himself reflecting not only on his existence and its meaning, but also on his inner self. It is a moving and fascinating culmination to the life of the hero we have watched mature. However, this reflective point of view probably makes this volume the least accessible to a YA audience. As with the earlier titles, there is a wonderful synergy between the prose style and the creation of the character of Nazhuret. His "voice" becomes yet more personal and more effective in drawing readers to his unique perspective. Two terrific supporting characters, Nazhuret's daughter, Nahveh, and the painter-duelist Count Dinaos provide a piquant contrast. As in the past, Nazhuret takes readers on an exhilarating journey; but this time, his quest takes them to an inner destination.?Cathy Chauvette, Fairfax County Public Library, VA
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