This is Eion (pronounced Owen) Colfers first historical fiction novel, after the best-selling Artemis Fowl series. This book follows the story of one Connor Broekhart, who was born flying, and so was born to fly. He and the Frenchman Victor are together, scientific masterminds, planning to overcome flight. The king of Saltee is all in appreciation of this, and provides them the materials they need. Set in an age of discovery and invention, where flying is first tested, this makes for a great read. As a child he and the princess Isabella were best friends, until they both grew up and went their separate ways. All was fine as Conor prepares to test a new model he and Victor had built, when a cruel but sophisticated man called Bonvilain takes Victors pistol and shoots both the king and the Frenchman dead, Conor of framed and took prisoner mining the diamond that Little Saltee is famous for. He is locked up with a blind but wise man, who gives Conor hope. The stupid Guard is bribed by Conor, and after collecting materials necessary, he builds a flying machine. He escapes during the coronation of the queen, but will he survive to save Isabella, regain his fathers trust, and avenge the king? This is quite a long story, but a strong reader would manage it, and enjoy it! Published this year, it is a different genre from Eions usual work, but he's done a very good job of it. I recommend this greatly, and hope you buy it!