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Book guide

The Empty Throne

by Bernard Cornwell

A dying ruler leaves Mercia open—and Uhtred must back a woman no warrior wants to obey.

Genre and trope pairingsHistoricalPolitical intrigueHistoricalWar story
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About The Empty Throne

Early tenth-century Britain is changing as Viking raids resume and Mercia faces a succession crisis. Æthelred is dying without a legitimate heir, while Uhtred supports Æthelflaed, Edward of Wessex’s formidable sister. Rivals gather for a struggle over the empty throne.

Reading signals

Spice
Light
Darkness
Dark
Pacing
Fast

Series

The Last Kingdom · Book 8 of 13

Content warnings
  • war
  • violence
  • political conflict

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