The Empty Throne

The eighth novel in Bernard Cornwell's bestselling series about the formation of England and the fate of its great hero, Uhtred of Bebbanburg. In the struggle for power, there can only be one ruler. The ruler of Mercia is dying and leaves no obvious heir. His wife is a born leader, but no woman has ever ruled over an English kingdom. She is without her greatest warrior and champion, Uhtred of Bebbanburg. An empty throne makes the kingdom vulnerable to rival West Saxons and the Vikings, who are once again on a bloody campaign. A hero is needed, a hero who has fought all his life, who can destroy the dual threat to Mercia. A hero who will ultimately decide the fate of a nation.