Will, the main character and a Ranger's apprentice, is captured by the Skandians along with his friend, Evanlyn (Araluen's Crown Princess Cassandra in disguise), in a big war in the previous book, The Burning Bridge.

The capturer, Jarl (war officer) Erak of the Skandians (mercenaries), takes them in as slaves.

Horace's reputation grows until he is noticed throughout Gallica, which attracts the horrible knight, Deparnieux of Castle Montsombre.

While hunting with her sling, Evanlyn watches a rider dressed in furs on a horse.

Will regains his old self as Evanlyn returns to the cabin, to Cassandra's great delight and relief.

On another review for the audiobook version, the vivid imagery was noted on how it provides great detail for the battle scenes.

[2] The review also praised the speaker John Keating, makes the production entertaining, and the cliffhanging conclusion is sure to have fantasy fans hoping for another instalment.