The Black Cup

One boy will be the spark

Summary

Twelve-year-old Max knows the King wants him dead. Born with his heart outside of his rib cage, Max is abandoned at birth by his father and raised by a kind witch who sacrifices all to keep him safe from the outside world. In time, Max’s father ruthlessly ascends to the throne and becomes the most feared king in history thanks to The Black Cup’s evil powers. When he learns that the baby he abandoned years ago still lives, and is now nearly a man, the King orders his troops to find and kill Max so that his rule will go unchallenged by his own blood. Rather than run away from the danger, Max embarks on a journey toward the city to seek his father and prevent further destruction of the kingdom and its people. That’s where the witch, the King, and Max are set on a collision course. The world they have known, and the lives they have lived, will be changed forever.

Background

The novel came together as a result of exploring the underlying psychology behind fairy tales and how certain stories continue to resonate with readers centuries after first being published. Betelheim’s The Uses of Enchantment was an invaluable resource in fashioning this YA fairy tale. The Black Cup’s appeal lies in its ability to draw in younger readers through its use of mystery and adventure while also dealing with darker themes and metaphors that older readers appreciate as well. I think readers will love the story and discover a new favorite read.

I am proud to be partnering with INtense Publications on this novel as I share their commitment to engaging young readers to foster a lifelong love of literature.