Sword Catcher by Cassandra Clare

Happy book birthday to SWORD CATCHER by Cassandra Clare
There are those who live in Castellane and serve the royal family and there are those who wield magic forbidden to live within Castellane's walls but serve the royals none the less. Two orphans find themselves on opposite sides of the wall but each are connected to the royal family whether they choose to be or not. Kel has grown up by Prince Conor's side as his Sword Catcher - his body double that will take a sword should need be but his love and loyalty to Conor are unquestionable. Lin and her brother have grown up without family as their grandfather pledged his alligence and magic as advisor to the king. Lin is a skilled physician using magic to heal but she is unable to save her best friend from the disease that is killing her without forbidden knowledge out of her reach. From the power hungry palace to battling underworld kings finding allies is much more difficult than finding danger. A war is coming. This brilliant fantasy takes its start from Medieval European history and adds layers of ancient magic, rich world cultures and a broad look at love. All the deceit , violence and power plays of GAME OF THRONES with the dry wit and multilayered characters that Cassandra Clare has given us in her young adult series. This is the fantasy series we have been waiting for and I want book two now. 4 1/2 stars ​