A fragile peace is about to shatter...

Alfred's son, Edward, and his unlikely daughter, Ethelfled, rule over Essex, Mercia, and East Anglia. But the relentless Northerners, coveting the rich lands and churches, launch constant raids.

Uhtred of Bebbanburg, the greatest warrior of the kingdoms, controls northern Mercia from his fortified city of Chester. However, forces gather against him. The Northerners ally with the Irish, who fight under the command of the fierce warrior Ragnall Ivarson, and the Northumbrians stand by their side. Despite the threat, both Edward and Ethelfled are unwilling to leave the safety of their stronghold. But when Uhtred's daughter is married to Ivarson's brother, who can trust whom?

There is no easy path when family clashes with faith, personal ambition clashes with political commitment. But a man with the courage of a warrior may be able to succeed. That man is Uhtred, and this is the most significant turning point in his life.

The ninth installment of the "Saxon Chronicles" series.