Green has done it again! Few better known authors has his story-telling ability.I don't know any other author that has a book that can swing from clever satire to bloody action and court intrigue without missing a beat!The hero: Prince Rupert reminds me of another Green hero,Owen Deathstalker in that he a reluctant warrior who must rise to the occassion for honor and duty against overwhelming odds.This novel has it all: clever satire that spoofs cliches in fairy tales and fantasy novels with honorable goblins and friendly dragons and courageous moat monster.This novel also has terrifying scenes of battles against demons and monsters and some tense court intrigue.I loved the atmospheric darkwoods and I could fear the evil that dwelled there.Green knows how keep the suspense high and plot twists coming.I laughed at the witty banter and my heart was in my throat over the gruesome scenes of battles and escapes. Two thumbs up! What a ride!