Sword Catcher by Cassandra Clare

 

Kel's life changes forever when he is plucked from an orphanage at age ten and taken to the Castellane castle to become the body double for Prince Conor Aurelian.  He is also his bodyguard, sworn to give his life to save Conor's.  The boys grow up together, sharing a room, lessons, fighting readiness and playing.  Now that the two are grown, Kel's tasks have changed but his mission remains the same, to do anything to protect Conor.

Lin Caster is a member of a cultural group that is forbidden from leaving their compound after dusk.  They are both valued for their knowledge and hated for their magic.  Lin's grandfather is the King's Counselor.  Lin has fought against tradition her entire life for her desire has always been to become a physician which she has against all obstacles.  She meets Kel when he is injured and later also treats Conor.  There is an attraction between Lin and Conor but nothing can come of it.  Marrying someone from her culture is not something that could ever happen and Conor must marry for political alliance.

Both Kel and Lin become involved with the ruler of the underground in Castellane, the Ragpicker King.  He lures Kel in with news of danger to Conor.  Lin is brought into his orbit when the Ragpicker King agrees to let her use his extensive library and his laboratory, both things forbidden to Lin in her culture.  What they don't know is if the Ragpicker King is for or against the ruling class.

Cassandra Clare is known as a star in the fantasy world.  She has written several very successful fantasy series.  This is her latest series and I fell into it head over heels.   The characters are well drawn with many subplots.  Kel is a compelling character, who made an agreement when he was a child that both expanded his universe and hemmed him in, never to be able to marry or make a life separate from Conor.  Lin is an interesting character although more of a stock one and the attraction between her and Conor is expected and is playing itself out.  The Ragpicker King is fascinating, a menacing figure hidden in the background where he manipulates those around him for his own purchases.  This is the first book in the series and I can't wait to read the next.  This book is recommended for fantasy readers.