NATIONAL BESTSELLER - "Captivating . . . The McCaffreys are well
known for their brilliant characterizations, and they do not disappoint
here."--Booklist
In Fort Hold, a clutch of fire-lizard eggs is about to hatch, and Lord
Bemin's beautiful young daughter, Koriana, is determined to Impress one
of the delightful creatures. At the hatching, apprentice harper Kindan
Impresses a fire-lizard of his own . . . and wins the heart of Koriana.
But Lord Bemin mistrusts harpers and will not hear of a match between
his daughter and the low-born Kindan. Then fate intervenes in the form
of a virulent plague as fast-spreading as it is deadly. Arising
suddenly, as if out of nowhere, the contagion decimates hold after hold,
paying no heed to distinctions of birth. In this feverish crucible,
friendship and love will be tested to the breaking point and beyond. For
with Threadfall scant years away, the Dragonriders dare not expose
themselves to infection, and it will fall to Kindan and his fellow
apprentices to bravely search for a cure and save humanity.
"Strong storytelling and compelling drama, along with memorable
characters."--Library Journal