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An exceptional young man at just fourteen, Haakon, youngest son of King Harald Finehair, is already proving himself a worthy leader of men and is now a threat to his brother, newly declared King, the ruthless, Eirik Bloodaxe.

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Alrek Einarfostersson, untainted by politics, principled in character but naive in the way the world really works, becomes Haakon’s friend and shield. But Alrek is himself on a path of revenge to discover the identities of raiders following an attack that failed to kill him but slew those dear to him.

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 During a fierce longship fleet battle with the Danes, Alrek discovers the identity of the killers. Should he pursue them to the end and leave Haakon at the mercy the murderous intentions of Eirik Bloodaxe, or honour his oath as his friend’s protector?  

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Alrek’s decision results in an unexpected twist and confrontation of shock and brutality.

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