The Widow and the King

This is the sequel to Mr. Dickinson's Cup of the World, which I have not read. W & K stands well on its own, although I believe it would have been more enjoyable in sequence. It tells the story of Ambrose, a boy destined to defeat the Prince Under the Sky, who he calls the Heron Man. The story slowed here and there and at times I found some characters unlikable to the point that I was on the verge of not caring for them. But the writing sustained me through these rough spots. The time and place is well-drawn and the fantasy elements, though sparingly used, add a rich flavor. By the end, I was very glad to have joined Ambrose on his journey.