The Whispering Blade

A forgotten heir. Five magical artifacts. A kingdom corrupted by darkness. For nineteen years, Everett has lived as a farmer's son in the remote village of Millbrook, plagued by recurring dreams of a grand castle and royal figures he can't identify. When his village is attacked by monstrous creatures corrupted by a mysterious Blight, Everett discovers a shocking truth: he is the last surviving heir to the throne of Elderwood, hidden away as an infant when a coup overthrew his family. As the rightful heir, only Everett can reclaim the five royal artifacts created to maintain balance throughout the kingdom-the Whispering Blade, the Crown of Seasons, the Heart of the Forest, the Scepter of Justice, and the Shield of Courage. For twenty years, these powerful objects have been scattered and hidden, while a corrupting force known as the Blight has spread across the land, twisting nature and people alike. Guided by the Whispering Blade-a magical sword that speaks only to him-and joined by a fierce forest ranger, a gruff former royal guard, and a forest spirit freed from corruption, Everett begins a dangerous quest to claim his birthright and restore balance to Elderwood. But the path is fraught with peril. Lord Dravek, who helped overthrow Everett's family, rules from the capital with an iron fist. The mysterious Blight King's corruption spreads further each day. And most disturbing of all, Everett's own cousin Alaric-once his childhood friend-has been corrupted and now hunts him relentlessly. As Everett journeys across a kingdom he barely remembers, he must learn to master the artifacts' powers, navigate court intrigue, and decide whom to trust. With each artifact he reclaims, his connection to Elderwood grows stronger-and the Blight King's attention turns more firmly in his direction. Can Everett gather all five artifacts before the corruption becomes irreversible? Can he resist the Blight's influence as it targets him directly? And when he finally confronts the source of the corruption, will he have the courage to make the sacrifices true restoration requires? "The Whispering Blade" is the first book in the captivating Forgotten Heir of Elderwood series, perfect for fans of classic coming-of-age fantasy with unique magic systems, corrupted kingdoms, and heroes who grow into their power. Readers who enjoy Brandon Sanderson, Garth Nix, and Tamora Pierce will be drawn into this tale of birthright, balance, and the courage to face darkness.