First published 2016
King Duncan has just taken the throne of Araluen, but his reign begins under the shadow of war. The exiled lord Morgarath gathers his forces in secret, building an army of brutal Wargals in preparation for his return. Halt, the kingdom's most skilled Ranger, accepts a mission that borders on suicide. He must climb the treacherous Mountains of Rain and Night to reach enemy territory and discover Morgarath's battle plans. Every step risks discovery and death. The intelligence Halt gathers will determine how Araluen's forces prepare for the coming conflict at Hackham Heath. This battle will decide whether Duncan keeps his crown or Morgarath reclaims the kingdom. Halt knows that failure means more than his own life. The survival of Araluen rests on his ability to return with the secrets that could save them all.
Genres: historical-fiction, adventure, fantasy, action
Vibes: fast-paced, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: chosen-one, enemies-to-lovers
Setting: Araluen, Hackham Heath, Mountains of Rain and Night
Period: Beginning of Reign
346 pages · Hardcover · Philomel Books