However, Brendyn has been kidnapped by malcontents who wish the crown for themselves. Kirra and her companions have been sent to rescue him. Justin, a King's Rider, is the only soldier and non-mystic among the four. Cammon is a young mystic whose talents haven't been fully discovered. Among those that are known is his ability to sense the presence and emotional state of other people and their approximate location. Donnal, like Kirra, is a shiftling. Together, they hope to rescue the regent and keep him from being killed.

The task proved difficult enough, though easier than expected. The hard part was finding out just who of the Twelve Houses was loyal to the king and who was willing to go to war to win the crown. Members of the Thirteenth House, the vassals who run the estates for the Marlords or Marladies who own the Twelve Houses are also suspected.

Kirra's father, Malcolm, Marlord of Danalustrous, provides a way for Kirra to eavesdrop without anyone knowing a mystic is listening. She would take the shape of her sister, Casserah, and attend all the summer balls at the various houses.

The Thirteenth House is filled with intrigue of magic, hatred and politics. It is sometimes tedious with the details of ball gowns, dinners and the lives of the very wealthy. But the action and sorcery more than make up for the detail. Pick up a copy and enjoy!