Archer of the Heathland: Windemere

HISTORICAL:  Redmond is a calm, reliable archer who has excellent leadership skills, a compassionate heart, and the courage of ten men.  Even so, it will take everything he has to free his men from the beautiful yet cunning and uncaring woman who has enslaved them.  But when Lord Dacrey attacks Redmond and his men, Redmond fears they will be used as slaves in the salt mines, so he comes up with a plan that is equally as daring as it is impossible.  If he fails, he will have to spend the rest of his life in the salt mines—along with his men.

This story is a fabulous epic that shines most in its world building. The medieval fantasy world is crafted in meticulous detail and is very much inspired specifically by two events during the Hundred Years’ War in our own history. Those who have not read the previous books in this series, however, will find it difficult to understand what is going on, who is who and what their role is, especially in the beginning. The author also uses a lot of telling versus showing when it comes to the character's emotions.  Still, Redmond’s character shines. He is a realistic, complex man who cares deeply for those who cannot care for themselves, which engages a reader immediately. Again, however, one would be best suited to have read the previous books in order to truly measure his growth. Overall, for those who love fantasy, it is a great adventure full of battles, intrigue and courage!

Majanka Verstraete