The Hero and the Crown is about a young woman's search for a place where she belongs. Although Aerin eventually becomes her country's best-loved hero, her early life is difficult and solitary. The book is also about prejudice. The people of Damar are suspicious of Aerin because of her Northern blood. Aerin herself recoils as she leams from Luthe that a common Northern ancestor is responsible for the Gift that marks the royal family. Aerin learns finally to accept herself and her own unique talents. While Aerin's strange destiny leads her through perilous adventures, her loyalty plays a strong part in their successful outcome.

The main character is Aerin, the first sol, fire-haired daughter of the King of Damar. Painfully shy and awkward in courtly situations, Aerin remains inconspicuous until her successful trial of a dragonfire-proof ointment forces her into the limelight. Because her...