So it is with Phaedra. As the daughter of the Warden of Trant, a large and strategic piece of the King's personal lands, she finds the reality of her position has its harsh responsibilities in this medieval kingdom.

Unrest runs through the kingdom as the Baron's of the lands vie for position in the royal court and seek to increase their holdings. Accusations of witchcraft become a tool to acquire the lands of those lacking the favor of the royal court. However, sorcery is afoot. Subtle and cunning forces are working to reshape the kingdom and Phaedra finds herself in a pivotal role as she is drawn into this sorcery. Her actions set in motion events that lead to war throughout the kingdom and the downfall of her father and the King himself.

Phaedra moves from a self-possessed girl to a woman with the weight of the kingdom on her shoulders in the course of three short years. In the end, she holds its future in her hands. She learns the price for using the secrets of the Cup of the World and its sorcery. A price that may cost her not only her own life, but the lives of her son and husband as well.

John Dickinson has created a unique, realistic, and believable medieval world. A world with a heroic past, a violent present, and an uncertain future. The story is a tapestry woven with the thread of intrigue and colored by an unusual form of magic. The story has the definite flavor of a Norse myth, yet distinctly different. The author's sense of story, smooth prose, and character development make this sword and sorcery fantasy enjoyable and exciting. Young adult readers will find this novel captivating and will easily relate to the joys, sorrows, and fears of the main character.

— H. B. STARKEY, Member SCBWI