The False Prince, Jennifer Nielsen. Sage, along with three other boys are found by Mr. Connor, who is looking for an orphaned boy to replace the dead Prince Jeron, He, his parents and older brother, the rightful heir to the thrown, perished in a sinking boat. Because the boys resemble the late prince, they are chosen, but must become proficient in various tasks to be deemed the winning choice: sword fighting, reading, learning manners, magic, cleanliness. Each have strengths and weaknesses. The first night, when the boys are offered the opportunity to leave with no repercussions, Latamer chooses to do that. He is shot in the back by Cregan, leaving Rodin, Tobias and Sage to compete for the thrown. The two left behind fear the same fate as Latamer. Imogene, a small mute servant girl aids Sage when he endures beatings, solitary confinement and starvation. Sage is most like Jeron; however, his mischievous behavior causes friction between him and Connor.

For the readers of fantasy, this is a sure fire win. The deeper one gets into the story, the more one cannot be pulled out easily. It is fast paced, with a mix of curiosity, thrilling scenes, good vs. evil and a touch of romance. The Runaway King, the follow-up will surely be sought out.