The Forgotten Kingdom

The Forgotten Kingdom by Signe Pike

Picking up right where the The Lost Queen left off, the Forgotten Kingdom continues to follow the different paths of Langoureth, Lailoken and Angharad as their fates carry them to pivotal points in their kindgom's story. Our characters are put through some incredibly difficult times that both change and shape them. They are complex, fleshed out and feel very real. There is so much richness and texture to the story, and I am particularly intrigued by who Angharad is shaping up to be. This book takes place at the beginning of the Anglo-Saxon invasion of Scotland, and so there are plenty of battles and skirmishes, and even some 'Battle of the Five Armies' vibes for fans of Tolkein as the whole of Scotland tries to protect their home.

These books are also incredibly well-researched. For me in particular, knowing that all of the places in the book are based on real sites in Scotland makes me want to book a trip to Scotland immediately upon finishing the read. Pike really makes the history come alive, rooting her characters deep into the land they live on and the historical writings that have survived from that era.

I was pulled in right from the beginning, the characters and setting are so well-done, and the plot has a huge scope that is very well played out. Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction, Arthurian legend, and I would also recommend this for fans of epic fantasy, because the beliefs of the characters themselves shapes how they interpret what occurs in their world - and so there are definitely a few somewhat magical elements at play as well. I'm only bummed that we'll have to wait until Fall 2023 for book 3. 

"The bitter wind pierces my body. 

 My feet are sore, my cheeks are pale. . .

I have endured so much suffering

my body has grown feathers."

- Buile Suibhne (The Frenzy of Suibhne) 

 

Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC. This is an unbiased review.