First published 2009
Halli Sveinsson is bored out of his mind in his sleepy valley, dreaming of the legendary heroes who once battled the bloodthirsty Trows. When one of his harmless pranks goes too far, Halli reignites an old blood feud, setting off a chain of events that will test his courage and wit. Pursued by a ruthless thief and a murderous rival, Halli must become the hero he always admired, facing epic battles and an ancient enemy to protect his home and the girl he never expected to meet. Jonathan Stroud spins a fresh, funny fantasy adventure with an unforgettable anti-hero at its heart.
Genres: fiction, adventure, fantasy, young-adult
Vibes: suspenseful, thought-provoking, whimsical
Tropes: chosen-one, found-family
Setting: Valley
483 pages · Hardcover · Hyperion Book CH