The Lost Queen by Signe Pike

“Do not deny yourself what little happiness you might find. For there are bound to be days in every lifetime dark enough to drown what little light we might gather.”

The Lost Queen by Signe Pike

I’ve recently been listening to the audio book of Outlander by Diana Gabaldon. One of my favorite books and series in the whole world. Having read the first book three times now I think, I wanted to listen to it this time. The narrator is incredible, and I’ve been swept away into another time, into history. I wanted to read something else historical, and I came across The Lost Queen by Signe Pike. This book was gorgeous, emotional and sad. I am eagerly awaiting the second one to come in at the library so I can start on that soon.

The Lost Queen follows Languoreth as she grows from girl to woman. The daughter of a king, she loses her mother at a young age. Her twin brother, Lailoken, is the man who will inspire the legend of Merlin, and they are closely bonded through childhood. As they grow, so do their responsibilities to the world and their people. Languoreth trains with a wise woman, Ariane and learns the gifts of healing.

When she is a young woman, Emrys Pendragon arrives at their home and changes all of their lives forever. He brings with him Maelgwyn, a warrior who easily captures Languoreth’s heart. Though the two fall in love, Languoreth finds she must deny her heart the one person it craves the most. For she is to be wed to Rhydderch, the son of a High King who could offer great protection to her people and family. It’s an alliance she feels is more important than her own happiness, even if it fills her with grief to make the choice.

This book weaves a lot of lore, history and magic through its pages. We see the rise of Christianity and the affect on Languoreth’s people. I loved that Languoreth was such a strong, formidable woman. She faced so much, more than any single person should have to. The ending of this book tore me apart. I can’t even fathom what’s next to come, and I can’t wait to read it. Signe Pike is a phenomenal writer, her words will pull you into another place and time. And this world and characters like Languoreth will forever sit in a part of your heart.