"The Kingdoms of Thorn and Bone" is a fantasy series written by Greg Keyes. It consists of four novels: The Briar King, The Charnel Prince, The Blood Knight, and The Born Queen. The story is set in a richly developed world filled with magic, political intrigue, and a diverse cast of characters, including knights, sorcerers, and mythical creatures. The plot revolves around the rise of a dark power and the struggle of various factions to combat it. Central to the narrative is the Briar King, a legendary figure whose return threatens the balance of the kingdoms. Themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the consequences of ambition are explored throughout the series.