The Castle of Llyr

Author: Lloyd Alexander

Summary: The third book in the series, Princess Eilonwy is sent to live with a distant king and queen so she can learn to be a lady. Taran realizes that he doesn't want her to go, but he and Gurgi accompany her to Dinas Rhydnant. Taran and Gurgi are to make sure she arrives safely and then return to Caer Dallben. Their arrival in Dinas Rhydnant is more eventful than Taran expected as Fflewddur and Gwydion both show up. By the second day Eilonwy is missing and in terrible danger. And then the companions' adventures begin as they travel through unknown lands searching for Eilonwy and finding all sorts of other things.

Recommendation: Yes, this book has a little more suspense than the second one. I like that Taran is starting to think more, his character becomes more mature and deals with bigger issues than before. He also is becoming more responsible, basically he's growing up. I like the new characters introduced in this book. And I confess, I didn't see the ending coming.

Hearts: 4