Castle Roogna
"Castle Roogna" by Piers Anthony is the third installment in the Xanth series and offers a compelling blend of time travel, magical conflict, and coming-of-age storytelling. At the center of the novel is Dor, the twelve-year-old son of Bink, who struggles with the pressures of being heir to the throne. Gifted with the magical ability to communicate with inanimate objects, Dor lacks confidence and maturity—qualities King Trent hopes to cultivate by sending him on a mission into the past.
Through a magical construct known as the Heaven Cent, Dor is projected 800 years back in time, where he inhabits the body of a long-dead barbarian warrior. In this ancient version of Xanth, Dor becomes involved in the founding events surrounding the titular Castle Roogna, which include an undead siege, political intrigue among humans and magical creatures, and a dangerous love triangle involving a ghost named Millie and a powerful magician. As Dor navigates the challenges of this unfamiliar time, he gains perspective, experience, and a deeper understanding of leadership and responsibility. His journey is both action-packed and thoughtful, offering readers a satisfying arc of character growth against a vividly imagined backdrop.
Piers Anthony continues to demonstrate his knack for creating a fantastical world filled with clever wordplay, unusual creatures, and moral quandaries. While "Castle Roogna" retains the light tone and pun-heavy style characteristic of the series, it also carries more emotional weight than its predecessors, offering richer character development and a more tightly focused plot. Fans of fantasy who enjoy magical systems rooted in creativity and charm, as well as readers who appreciate character-driven narratives, will find much to enjoy here.
I recommend "Castle Roogna" to both returning fans of Xanth and new readers looking for an entry point that mixes humor, adventure, and heart. It’s a satisfying blend of whimsy and depth that continues to build out the enchanting, ever-surprising world of Xanth.