A gripping, action-packed historical tale set in the world of the Bernicia Chronicles. Perfect for fans of Bernard Cornwell and Conn Iggulden.
AD 630. Anglo-Saxon Britain. Winter grips the land in its icy fist. Terror stalks the hills, moors and marshes of Bernicia. Livestock and men have been found ripped asunder, their bones gnawed, flesh gorged upon. People cower in their halls in fear of the monster that prowls the night.

King Edwin sends his champions, Bassus and Octa, and band of trusted thegns to hunt down the beast and to rid his people of this evil.

Bassus leads the warriors into the chill wastes of the northern winter, and they soon question whether they are the hunters or the prey. Death follows them as they head deeper into the ice-rimed marshes, and there is ever only one ending for the mission: a welter of blood that will sow the seeds of a tale that will echo down through the ages.

Reviewers on Matthew Harffy:

'A brilliant characterization of a difficult hero in a dangerous time. Excellent!' Christian Cameron
'He is really proving himself the rightful heir to Gemmell's crown.' Jemahl Evans
'A genuinely superb novel.' Steven McKay
'Beobrand is the warrior to follow' David Gilman

Matthew Harffy grew up in Northumberland where the rugged terrain, ruined castles and rocky coastline had a huge impact on him. He now lives in Wiltshire, England, with his wife and their two daughters.

Follow Matthew at @MatthewHarffy www.matthewharffy.com