The Ring of Solomon (Prequel to Bartimaeus Trilogy) (A Bartimaeus Novel)

This prequel to the Bartimaeus Trilogy is set in 950 B.C.E., when King Solomon rules Jerusalem with a magic ring of immense power. Solomon charges Khaba, a magician in his royal court, with overseeing construction of his temple. The workforce consists of demons, including the djinni Bartimaeus, who is removed from the project and assigned to hunt bandits in the desert instead. There Bartimaeus encounters Asmira, a skilled captain of the Queen of Sheba's guard, who is on a mission to save her country from Solomon's impending attack. Though Bartimaeus initially has no interest in helping her, Asmira makes him an offer he cannot refuse. The novel explores themes of freedom and slavery, both magical and otherwise, and features unforgettable characters. It was selected as a Booklist Editors' Choice and a School Library Journal Best Book.