Ranger's Apprentice: The Emperor of Nihon-Ja

Summary: In book 10 in the Ranger's Apprentice series, Horace is sent on a diplomatic journey to Nihon-Ja to learn their legendary katana skills, but while he's there a group of individuals overthrow the emperor. Knowing this battle is not his own, but knowing he must do what is right, Horace helps protect the emperor by escaping to a fabled fortress. Understanding Horace, the emperor, and his remaining loyal followers can't hold their positions forever, Will, Halt, Evanlyn, and Alyss come to their rescue and devise a plan to squash the treasonous group.

Suggested age rating: 12+ based on some violence and gore.

Review: Starting off the book was a little slow in the first couple of chapters. Originally I thought the beginning had no purpose, but the author, being as clever as he is, made every detail mean something by the end of the novel. What I loved about this book the most was how much planning and direction it had right from the first page. I also appreciated how well-written the Emperor was in both his stance to bring equality to the different classes as well as his wisdom and willingness to fight. This is quite refreshing considering how most powerful rulers are the villains and only want to dominate and control their people. This novel is quite frankly my second favorite novel in the series based on its constant action, suspense, humor, and character growth.

Language: None present.

Indecency/Sex: A man kisses a woman's hand, mention of a woman kissing a man on the cheek, reference to spanking children on the butt for punishment, a man and woman get engaged.

Violence and Gore: Several men are injured and killed with arrows, spears, and swords, some are brutally killed and their deaths and injuries are described in detail, several animals are grotesquely killed where bones are broken and one animal's stomach is sliced open.

Frightening Scenes: Two girls camp out in the woods trying to kill an animal, but they find out the animal has been stalking them.

Substance Abuse: Several men drink alcohol.

Spiritual Content: Mention of people believing in gods, mention of monsters, demons, spirits, and sorcerers though none are present.

Genres: Fantasy, fiction, young adult, medieval.