For as long as she can remember, Ellina has wanted to enter the House of Lohenrin, to become a Preceptor and healer, under the tutelage of the strange alien beings, the S'hazon. It was her mother's dream too, and after her death, Ellina is even more determined to enter the House, with or without her father's blessing.

There is growing discontent with the S'hazon, with new followers of the old Temple springing up every day and Ellina is shocked to discover that her friend, Hasmonea, who once promised to enter the House with her, is now an adherent of the ancient superstitions.

Hasmonea is convinced that the S'hazon are evil and only wants Ellina to find out the truth. The ruler's brother, Mesor is also concerned that the S'hazon are not all that they appear to be. Both of them want Ellina to try and discover what it is the S'hazon are hiding in the forbidden valley. Once she passes her training, Ellina is invited to go there for further tuition and takes the opportunity to find out.

What she discovers is only the first step on her adventure through betrayal, anguish and love and a truth so dark that she is not sure she can share it with anyone...

This book was brilliant, from the first page it never lets up, a roller coaster ride of intrigue and adventure, faith and belief. The descriptions are vivid, luring you into the world of Altua and its inhabitants. Ellina's despair at what she sees as the betrayal of her faith is extremely well written and very poignant.

There is a growing attraction between Ellina and Mesor, but Ellina has been hurt so much that she does not want comfort from anyone. Who can she trust when she was so badly betrayed before? She is a strong character, but gradually comes to realise that there is strength in numbers and the truth she finds so terrifying, is better shared.

A captivating tale.

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