Hidden truths. Hidden power. Hidden destiny.
On the shores of a rusty sea, in the streets of a starving city, a young man named Áed scraps to build a life for himself and the makeshift family he loves. Scarred by a trauma he cannot remember, and haunted by the brutal damage it left behind, he has no idea of the courage his future will demand.
When a heart-wrenching tragedy shatters his family, a desperate Áed risks a treacherous journey to seek a kingdom of legend—and a new beginning. But an ancient legacy smoldering within him is about to turn deadly, and neither he—nor the legends—will ever be the same.
WHAT READERS ARE SAYING
★★★★★ Fiery debut and I need more!
★★★★ The Hidden King is a first-rate read
★★★★★ Sizzling debut shows this novelist's on the rise
★★★★ Characters are well-written
★★★★★ A promising debut
★★★ Engaging, fast-paced debut!
★★★★★ A brilliant "Rags-to-riches" type story
★★★★ Must add to your shelves!
"The Hidden King is an interesting entry into the genre of darker YA fantasy, and an exciting first instalment of The Coming of Áed series. E.G. Radcliff has created a vibrant and enthralling World that incorporates bits of Fae lore. [...] While the secret heir journey to discovering his legacy may not be new ground in fantasy fiction, the execution of Radcliff's story sets it apart from others in the genre. It blends LGBT themes, chosen family dynamics, and darker moments (including torture) into an exciting and wholesome tale. [...]Radcliff doesn't shy away from showing grittier realities of combat and a hero's journey, and there are moments of darkness and loss, suggestive descriptions, and intense twists. The writing is generally very good, and Radcliff skillfully applies a casual, yet beautiful style to tell their stories. That being said, here and there they show the tendency to use more flowery prose: "(...)purple-and-yellow bruises that bloomed over his flesh like macabre flowers". Let's call it an artistic flair. [...] Radcliff has a rare skill to keep a reader's attention on the scene level.The Hidden-King is a fast-paced thrill ride through an intriguing world. Evocative prose brings the story to life, with characters who are intriguing, and whose relationships enrich the plot. The story stands on its own, but the ending opens up a world of possibilities. Well-written, focused, entertaining. I especially appreciate the author's elegant and evocative writing style."
"...THE WRITING IS CRISP AND THE WORLDBUILDING IS RICH IN THIS PROMISING SERIES OPENER WITH FAERIE INFLUENCES."
