J. J. Fischer’s new novel is an action-filled journey inspired by the tale of Pocahontas with slow-burning romance as enemies become lovers.

The Heart of the King

Together, Rigan and the prince will rid the Twin Kingdoms of the Shro Khan: deadly, mind-controlling monsters that terrorize the people on sand and at sea.
August 2025 · Share a reply or review

The worst monsters live within us.

The warring island kingdoms of Calidore and Jardia are thrown into chaos when Calidore’s once prized, but now quite possibly half-mad, seer announces that young gravedigger Rigan North will one day capture the heart of the crown prince of Jardia-and lead Jardia to victory against Calidore. Together, Rigan and the prince will rid the Twin Kingdoms of the Shro Khan: deadly, mind-controlling monsters that terrorize the people on sand and at sea.

Desperate to maintain his stranglehold on power and prevent the prophecy from being fulfilled, the king of Calidore sends a troop of soldiers led by the legendary Aureus Corcoran to kidnap Rigan. Corcoran, who is rumored to be able to communicate with the Khan, wonders how this unremarkable, frustrating girl could ever ensnare the attentions of a would-be king even as he admires her clever attempts to escape him. But when her fiery ways and unexpected kindnesses begin to claim Corcoran’s heart, prompting him to second-guess his orders, he wonders how the prophecy could ever come true-until he learns that not only is he far more than he believed himself to be, but she may be too.

Review of The Heart of the King

· August 2025

When the legendary Captain Aureus Corcoran of Calidore comes to kidnap Rigan North, the young gravedigger decides she will not come along quietly. After all, a prophecy states Rigan will someday capture the heart of the Jardia’s future king and lead him to victory against Calidore. Now both nations are looking for her.

J. J. Fischer has once again created a story with deep lore and an enchanting world. The Heart of the King is an action-filled journey inspired by the tale of Pocahontas with slow-burning romance as enemies become lovers. Characters are well-developed and endearing, while landscape supplies lush paradises and unique creatures. Readers will appreciate the explorations of destiny and human choices.

Best for: Young adult fans of fantasy and romance.

Discern: PG-13 torture scene, one moment of implied inappropriate touching that is prevented, possible reference to attempted suicide.

 

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