Royal Exile (Valisar Trilogy)

Led by Loethar, an ambitious and ruthless tyrant, a terrifying army of mercenaries and renegades from the great southern steppes threatens to overwhelm the Kingdom of Penraven - the army has already overthrown its two neighbouring realms and left a trail of devastation and broken lives in their wake. Penraven is Loethar's most desired prize. Driven by dreams of empire, fuelled by his increasing obsession with magic, Loethar's plan to overthrow King Brennus of Penraven, 9th of the Valisars, was cemented the hour he learned that Brennus possessed the power of coercion. All Valisar heirs have been blessed down the ages with the sinister ability to bend people entirely to their will. Loethar is convinced that if he consumes these empowered people he will then be imbued with their skills and magics...and be unstoppable.