Aidan Hennessey’s The Heirs of Lydin is a lovely fantasy novel that takes place in Aderilund, part of the Aspen Kingdom. Bellaydin Ap’Lydin is a human living among the beautiful Eldara. He was orphaned at a young age and was raised by a foster mother, Saegralanna. Lady Saegralanna is herself half-human and half-Eldara or elf. Since the Eldara find ‘physical disfigurements discomforting’, Bellaydin finds himself generally excluded and scorned by those around him. Only his half-sister, Polnygar, who is herself part human, treats him with any dignity. The unconventional family of three struggle to maintain their place, their rightful place, in society. All the while wars are brewing as powers shift around them. It is an epic battle of good versus evil.
Heirs of Lydin is a terrific delightful debut from Aidan Hennessey. The imagery is vivid throughout, conjuring up beautiful vistas and peaceful pastoral scenes. The two siblings, Bellaydin and Polnygar, are charming together and then apart as they find their way in the world, forging new friendships and creating tentative alliances. Even the accompanying characters add both depth and levity to the story. Some are lighthearted and humorous… “I’ve seen death and carnage. I’m not some perfumed courtier who doesn’t know which end of a sword to stick into his enemy.” Others prove heartwarming and loyal. Fans of fantasy will enjoy the pulsating story from start to finish. The exquisite detail starts with the cover and continues right through to the final battle. The Heirs of Lydin is sure to become a modern classic!
