The Widow and the King

The Widow and the King by John Dickinson, published by David Fickling Books in 2005, is a captivating tale set twelve years after the events of The Cup of the World. This edition spans 612 pages and is presented in English. The story follows Ambrose, the last in the king’s line, who lives in exile with his mother in the decaying manor of Tarceny. Ambrose faces a grave threat from the hooded priest of the Undercraft, an ancestral spirit of evil determined to end his life to ensure its own survival.

Readers will find a rich narrative that explores themes of kingship and the intricate relationships between parents and children. As Ambrose seeks refuge in the house of the Widow of Develin, a respected place of learning, the sinister priest and his followers begin to infiltrate the sanctuary, posing a danger to Ambrose and those around him. This book delves into the importance of courage and knowledge, as well as the contrasts between innocence and experience, offering a substantial and thought-provoking read within the realms of juvenile fiction and fantasy.