The first book of the Ruby Ring series, Casting The Die, tells the story of Robert, a sixteen year old boy from the village of Masden, who learns that the life he has been living has been a disguise. He wakes one night, to find that his home has been invaded by soldiers, sent by Duke Henry to capture him and his father. During the ensuing battle, Robert's father is killed and his twin sister kidnapped. Robert and his mother escape and go into hiding in a cave beneath an old hill fort. Several days later, his friend Johnny Tuppence, along with his family, also escape to the cave, bringing food and other supplies. They talk, and Robert discovers that his father was far more than the stable master of Masden, and that his legacy for his son is a large ruby ring that glows mysteriously whenever Robert slips it onto his finger. Johnny's father, Albert, refuses to say more, instead sending him with Johnny to hike across country to the port of Waterton, where they meet with one of his father's old friends, Andrew Jameson. After a harrowing escape from Waterton, Jameson tells Robert that his father was actually Prince Gerald, son of the murdered king. When Robert refuses to believe him, Jameson has him put on the ring, which lights the room in a ruby glow. "It's the ring of kingship. It only glows when worn by the rightful King of Bonterra." Later, during one of his conversations with Johnny, Robert learns that Johnny's family has always been a part of the king's court, as wizards. Robert scoffs at the idea until Johnny provides examples of his strange 'voice.' The book ends with Robert forming a small group of followers, determined to restore his family to the throne. This book, Seizing The Crown, continues where the first leaves of. The book follows Robert and Johnny, as they work on enlisting allies in their cause. It also tells the story of his sister Marie, imprisoned in the duke's dungeon, and of the people she meets in her struggles to escape and join her brother. The first book introduces Frederick, Duke Henry's son, and the heir to his throne. Frederick becomes a major, and malevolent character in this book, and ultimately, he, Robert, and Marie battle for the throne of Bonterra. This is a story of adventure, swordplay, magic, intrigue, and betrayal. In the end, all of the characters are tarnished, and only one will claim the throne.
About the Author: Stephen Gilbert is a retired businessman, teacher, and school administrator. He has always enjoyed writing, and describes it as his 'retirement job.' He is an eclectic writer. Some books are clearly intended for adults. Others target the children he worked with for many years. Still others, such as the Ruby Ring series, appeal to both. Stephen Gilbert lives in Northern California, and when not writing, enjoys swimming, golf, travel, trips to the beach, and spending time with his new grand daughter.