When the religious council that governs Northern Kammbia refuses to believe that Diondray is the one who will fulfill the ancient prophecy from the sacred Book of Kammbi, he is once more compelled to embark on a journey. Summoned to the Southern region, Diondray sets out again, this time with only two of his original five traveling companions, in the hopes that the people of the South will be more receptive to his message. Upon arrival, however, he quickly learns that the cities of the South are nothing like those he encountered in the North. The people are worldly and have completely different beliefs– if at all. Struggling with the fact that no one wants to listen to him or heed the teachings of the sacred book, Diondray begins to question his own validity. He wonders if maybe he isn’t the one meant to fulfill the prophecy after all. However, his connection to a mysterious leopard provides a pathway for Diondray to connect to the people of Southern Kammbia. Will Diondray succeed in his quest? Or will he be influenced by the people and culture of the Southern region and turn his back on fulfilling the prophecy all together? There is only one way to find out. Diondray’s Roundabout is the third book of the Diondray's Chronicles series.
Diondray's Roundabout is the third book in the Diondray's Chronicles fantasy series, continuing the story begun in previous books about what happens when Diondray Azur discovers the sacred Book of Kammbi, which leads him to a renewed sense of purpose in his life and a spiritual quest to find his place in a wider world than he was raised to believe in.
Here Diondray struggles against seemingly everyone who doesn't believe in his newfound sacred calling and the prophecy which indicates he will be the one to bring peace to a divided land.
After being rejected by the North, he journeys to the South, where he has hopes of recognition, accompanied by two of the companions from his previous encounters. But the South is truly an alien land to him, with its different culture, belief systems and values, and even more closed minds about Diondray's possibilities. These prove even more challenging than the North's rejection of him, because the South doesn't even believe in the sacred Book o f Kammbi; let alone his prophesied role.
As self-doubt enters into the picture, Diondray finds himself on not only an outward but an inward journey towards acceptance, which is key to fulfilling his destiny. But how can he fulfill his destiny if he doubts his own intentions?
Because Diondray's Roundabout continues to expand upon prior events and enhances the characters in Diondray's life, it's especially recommended for previous readers of the series, who will find this addition a powerfully expansive read. Diondray's coming of age process, his questions about his culture, spirituality, and place in the world,and the friendships which evolve in support of his quest create a vivid saga.---Diane Donovan, Senior Reviewer-Midwest Book Review
