Part of The Last Kingdom, book 9
First published 2016
Uhtred commands Chester's fortifications as storm clouds gather across northern England. The great warrior has carved out his domain in Mercia, but Norse raiders mass beyond his walls. Ragnall Ivarson leads Irish allies northward while Northumbrian forces swell their ranks. King Edward and his sister Aethelflaed hold back, safe behind their own defenses. Uhtred finds himself caught between advancing enemies and reluctant allies. His own daughter has married into Ivarson's family, splitting his loyalties when he needs them most. Trust becomes a luxury he cannot afford. The Norse armies grow stronger each day while the English kingdoms hesitate. Uhtred must choose between family bonds and political duty. He faces his greatest test as overwhelming odds threaten everything he has built in Mercia.
Genres: historical-fiction, military-fiction, adventure, action
Vibes: emotional, fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, loyalty-conflicts
Setting: Mercia, Chester, Northumbria, Ireland
Period: Medieval, Dark Ages
299 pages · Hardcover · Harper