Part of Ranger's Apprentice, book 2
First published 2006
Will and his companion Horace arrive in Celtica on what should be a routine diplomatic mission. The Rangers have sent them to secure allies as the kingdom prepares for war against the warlord Morgarath. Instead of welcoming Celticans, they find empty streets and abandoned homes. The entire population has vanished. Will realizes that Morgarath has orchestrated this disappearance as part of a larger scheme. The evil warlord has discovered a route through the eastern mountains, previously thought impossible to cross. His armies are now positioned to ambush the king's forces in a devastating surprise attack. With the main army too far away to warn and no allies to summon, Will and Horace must act alone. Their Ranger training has prepared them for many challenges, but they now face Morgarath's full power with only their skills and friendship to rely on. The fate of the kingdom rests on two young warriors who must prove themselves against true darkness.
Genres: historical-fiction, adventure, fantasy, action
Vibes: emotional, fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: found-family, unlikely-heroes
Setting: Celtica, Eastern Mountains
Period: Medieval
262 pages · Hardcover · Viking Books for Young Readers