In the latest entry in the Witch World series, Aisling, a young woman with magical gifts, is compelled to return to her homeland of Karsten to destroy her evil older brother Kirion and Shastro, the malevolent duke that he serves. Kirion is without magic but has learned to draw power from the deaths of those with Old Blood, which makes magic possible. Aisling becomes part of Shastro's court in disguise, aided in her mission by her younger brothers Keelan and Hadrann. The three work behind the scenes to bring down the evil sorcerer and the duke. This novel does not work well as a stand-alone title. With the exception of Shastro, none of the characters undergo any change as the story progresses. Kirion is absolutely evil, Aisling is absolutely good, and the two obviously despise each other, but how they got that way is only touched on. As part of a series, these issues might be more fully explained in earlier titles. As the three conspirators work covertly against Kirion and the duke, not a great deal happens, but the descriptions of court intrigue and the elaborate plots set out by Aisling and company are entertaining and believable. For those who are fans of the series, this book is probably a must-have. Those unfamiliar with the series should start with earlier volumes. VOYA CODES: 3Q 3P J S A/YA (Readable without serious defects; Will appeal with pushing; Junior High, defined as grades 7 to 9; Senior High, defined as grades 10 to 12; Adult-marketed book recommended for Young Adults). 2005, Tor, 320p., Ages 12 to Adult