The thrilling Strongbow Saga continues with this fierce sequel chronicling the adventures of a young man learning the ways of the Viking warriors. As fifteen-year-old Halfdan embarks on a perilous mission in a foreign land, he shows signs of greatness. But will he live up to his family name, or die trying? Author and Viking expert Judson Roberts draws on his detailed knowledge of this bloody time and culture to bring a young hero's exploits to life. Grade 9 Up—Through a lucky twist of fate, orphan and former slave Halfdan Hroriksson is accepted by Jarl Hastein to serve with him on the Viking warship Gull . Although only 15, Halfdan has an uncanny skill with the longbow. It is through his ability, honesty, and strength of character that he is grudgingly accepted as a member of the crew. While serving his newfound lord, the teen hopes not only to find adventure and riches, but also to bring to justice the man who murdered his brother and then stole his inheritance. The story begins a bit slowly, but soon readers will be engaged in the adventure and the grit and gore of the ninth century. The book ends abruptly, with the promise of a continued story line in the future. It will be difficult to understand as a stand-alone, due in part to the complexity of the plot and the specifics of the time period, but fans of Viking Warrior (HarperCollins, 2006) will enjoy it.— Melissa Christy Buron, Epps Island Elementary, Houston, TX Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. The second volume in the Strongbow Saga takes up the tale of Halfdan Hroriksson in 845 CE, as he enters a coastal town in Jutland in hopes of joining the crew of a longship. Halfdan, burdened by memories of family deaths and his vow to avenge his half-brother's murder, gains a place in the crew of the Gull, though his only useful skill is with his bow. When they take part in an invasion of France, Halfdan is sorely tested as he tries to act with honor in a violent time. Even readers who have not read the previous novel in the series, Viking Warrior (2006), will find it easy to follow Halfdan's tale, which is told in the first person with great immediacy and attention to detail. While the background story informs his thoughts and his decisions, the narrative thrust is forward, and the current tale of battle, siege, and reconnaissance features plenty of action as well as bits of humor and reflection. An absorbing historical novel told from the viewpoint of a young Viking. Phelan, Carolyn Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved Judson Roberts brings an extensive, carefully cultivated knowledge of ninth-century Viking history to the Strongbow Saga. He also draws on a distinguished career investigating and prosecuting crime as an attorney and a special agent. He lives in Houston, Texas.