Beyond the Burning Lands (Sword of the Spirits) by John Christopher

After years in exile, Prince Luke returns to Winchester, a city steeped in a future England infused with strange powers and intricate societal rules. As the rightful heir to a throne shrouded in mystery, Luke has much to navigate, including political intrigue, unexpected alliances, and the burden of his lineage. The once-familiar streets are now filled with both danger and opportunity, as the fabric of society shifts beneath his feet.

Amid the backdrop of the Burning Lands, Luke discovers a world that combines the remnants of tradition with the stark realities of change. He must reconcile his sense of duty with a growing awareness of the complexities around him. Each step he takes leads him deeper into a web of challenges that test not only his skills as a leader but also his understanding of friendship, loyalty, and power.

Guided by the spirits of the past and haunted by their expectations, Luke's journey forces him to confront not only external enemies but also the deeper shadows within himself. He finds himself at a crossroads, where every decision can alter the future of his kingdom. The bonds he establishes along the way could either solidify his claim to the crown or fracture his ambitions beyond repair.

As old enemies rise and new threats loom large, Luke must summon all his courage and intellect to navigate a world where nothing is as it seems. The path forward is fraught with peril, but it also holds the promise of greatness if he's willing to embrace his destiny and lead his people into an uncertain future.