The Witchwood Crown (2017)

The Witchwood Crown is the fifth novel in Tad Williams' Osten Ard saga, following The Heart of What Was Lost and preceding Empire of Grass. It is the first novel of Williams' The Last King of Osten Ard tetrology. The novel was critically praised upon its release. The book is published by DAW Books in the United States, and Hodder Books in the UK.

Plot summary

More than thirty years have passed since the events of Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn, and the world has reached a critical turning point once again. The realm is threatened by divisive forces, even as old allies are lost, and others are lured down darker paths. Perhaps most terrifying of all, the Norns—the long-vanquished elvish foe—are stirring once again, preparing to reclaim the mortal-ruled lands that once were theirs.

Reception

Kirkus Reviews gave the novel a coveted starred review, calling it is "a richly described, meticulously plotted, and multilayered narrative tapestry featuring a diversity of adeptly developed characters and multiple storylines" and stating, "this is flawless epic fantasy."