Signe Pike’s The Forgotten Kingdom is the second installment in The Lost Queen trilogy. Set against the backdrop of 6th-century Scotland, the novel intricately weaves a tale of mysticism, political upheaval, and familial loyalty. Following the success of the first book, The Lost Queen, this sequel deepens the narrative, exploring themes of resilience, betrayal, and survival.
The Forgotten Kingdom has been widely praised for its seamless blend of historical authenticity and mythic allure. It offers a tale that captivates while revealing the stark realities of the medieval era.
Plot Overview: A Battle for Legacy and Survival
The story picks up where The Lost Queen leaves off, centering on the siblings Lailoken and Languoreth and their entwined fates. Languoreth is imprisoned in her chamber, grappling with betrayal as her husband and son march to war against her twin brother, Lailoken. Meanwhile, her daughter, Angharad, trained as a Wisdom Keeper, is caught in the chaos of a battle that leaves her stranded among the Picts.
The narrative masterfully shifts between the perspectives of these three central characters. From Lailoken’s struggles in exile to Angharad’s quest through Pictish lands, the tale captures the essence of survival amid cultural and religious transformations. Pike paints the turmoil of a Scotland divided between the old Pagan ways and the rise of Christianity.
Main Characters: Strength in Adversity
Languoreth
Languoreth’s arc embodies resilience. Imprisoned and bereft of agency, her struggles resonate as she navigates the precarious politics of her Christian husband’s court while secretly adhering to the Old Ways. Her courage and intelligence shine through as she fights to protect her children and her beliefs.
Lailoken
Pike’s reimagining of Lailoken as the historical Myrddin (Merlin) is layered and poignant. His descent into madness and the loss he endures humanize this legendary figure. Lailoken’s journey in exile and his efforts to rally allies highlight his unwavering commitment to his people and his role as a Wisdom Keeper.
Angharad
Angharad’s story is perhaps the most compelling. The youngest of Languoreth’s children, her resilience and resourcefulness reflect the teachings of her uncle, Lailoken. Her perspective brings an innocence that contrasts with the darker themes of war and betrayal, yet her bravery makes her a force to be reckoned with.
Themes: A Rich Tapestry
1. Clash of Religions
The tension between Paganism and Christianity is central to the trilogy. Pike does not present one as superior but highlights the conflict’s impact on identity and culture. Languoreth’s secret Paganism in a Christian court symbolizes the struggle to preserve tradition against an encroaching new order.
2. Family and Loyalty
The bonds of family drive the narrative. Languoreth’s love for her children and Lailoken’s dedication to his sister emphasize the strength found in familial ties, even amid betrayal and tragedy.
3. Survival and Adaptation
From Lailoken’s exile in the mountains to Angharad’s survival among the Picts, the story celebrates human endurance. Pike’s characters exemplify the will to adapt and thrive in the harshest conditions.
Writing Style: Lyrical and Immersive
Pike’s prose is rich and evocative, transporting readers to ancient Scotland. Her meticulous attention to detail in describing landscapes, customs, and rituals enhances the narrative’s authenticity. The duality of lyrical passages with raw depictions of war and hardship creates a balanced and engaging storytelling experience.
However, the pacing occasionally falters. Some chapters delve too deeply into descriptive passages, which, while beautiful, can detract from the story’s momentum. This may test the patience of readers seeking faster-paced action.
Strengths of the Book
Historical Depth: Pike’s research shines through in her depiction of 6th-century Scotland. From the description of the Battle of Arderydd to the cultural nuances of the Picts, the novel feels immersive and authentic.
Complex Characters: Each protagonist is well-developed, their inner struggles adding depth to the overarching narrative.
Mythic Integration: The weaving of the Myrddin (Merlin) legend into a historical context is both innovative and compelling.
Critiques and Limitations
Uneven Pacing: Certain sections, particularly those heavy with exposition, feel sluggish.
Character Development for Minor Figures: While the main characters are intricately detailed, some secondary characters, like Rhydderch, lack the depth needed to justify their motivations.
Abrupt Transitions: The shift between character perspectives occasionally disrupts the narrative flow.
Comparison to the Trilogy
The Lost Queen: This first book focuses on Languoreth’s rise and the romance of her youth, setting a more introspective tone. In contrast, The Forgotten Kingdom expands the scope to include battles and political intrigue, creating a more dynamic yet darker narrative.
The Shadowed Land (Upcoming): Based on the trajectory, the third book promises to conclude Lailoken’s transformation into Myrddin and resolve the lingering conflicts.
Recommendations for Readers
Fans of historical fiction and Arthurian legends will find much to love. Readers who enjoyed novels like The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley or Circe by Madeline Miller will appreciate Pike’s blend of myth and history. For further exploration into Scotland’s ancient lore, The Warlord Chronicles by Bernard Cornwell offers a grittier perspective on Arthurian myths.
Conclusion: A Compelling Sequel
The Forgotten Kingdom is a worthy continuation of The Lost Queen trilogy. Signe Pike’s ability to breathe life into historical figures while crafting a rich, immersive world is commendable. Despite minor flaws, the novel is a testament to the enduring allure of myth and history, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.
The novel’s strengths in character development and world-building outweigh its occasional lapses in pacing. Pike’s talent for storytelling cements The Forgotten Kingdom as a standout in historical fiction. Readers will eagerly await the concluding chapter in this captivating trilogy.