The first book in an epic tale of enchanting adventure from the acclaimed author of the Sevenwaters series

"A multilayered plot, intriguing characters and lyrical prose" Publishers Weekly

"An engrossing, beautifully written work of historical fiction" Booklist

Growing up on a farm in Rogaland, Norway, all Eyvind has ever wanted is to become one of the greatest Viking warriors-a Wolfskin-and fight for his leader in the name of the Warfather god, Thor. But his friend Somerled, a strange and lonely boy, has his own plans for the future. And they begin with an oath of brotherhood, which Eyvind swears to prove to Somerled that he has an ally.

A world away, Nessa, niece of King Engus of the Folk, begins her training to become a priestess of the Light Isles, and learn the ways of the mysteries.

Many years later, Eyvind, now one of the most highly regarded Wolfskins, is obliged to accompany Somerled and a group of settlers, led by Somerled's much respected brother, Ulf, to begin a new settlement on the beautiful islands rumoured to lie across the western sea. The expedition begins badly, however, with a tragic event on board one of the ships. Something tells Eyvind that it may not have been an accident ...

In spite of these beginnings they reach the islands, and Ulf's new settlement is a harmonious one. Then one day, on a trip to a Holy place of the Folk, a brutal murder occurs. Now Eyvind begins to feel the binds of his boyhood oath, and realises what sort of future Somerled had in mind for himself all those years ago ...

Fans of Marion Zimmer Bradley, Isobelle Carmody and Robin Hobb will love Juliet Marillier.